Business Manchester

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

Construction

Helen Greaney

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11/03/2025

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

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11/03/2025

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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.

Greater Manchester’s largest entrepreneurs festival returns for 2025

Events

Helen Greaney

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11/03/2025

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Greater Manchester’s largest entrepreneurs festival returns for 2025

GM Business Growth Hub is bringing its Festival of Enterprise back for the third time – welcoming start-ups, entrepreneurs, sole traders and the self-employed.

Taking place on Friday (March 14), the Royal Exchange Theatre is the ultimate destination for those hoping to launch or expand their business.

Event host EnterprisingYou, GM Business Growth Hub’s flagship support programme for the self-employed and startups in the region, has supported over 4000 entrepreneurs and small businesses, and helped create £13.6 million of revenue across Greater Manchester since 2020.

This year’s Festival of Enterprise has seen a 50% increase in registrations from 2024, and additional tickets have been released this week.

Yvonne Sampson, head of enterprise at GM Business Growth Hub, said: “We’re so excited to be bringing back Festival of Enterprise for the third year. And this time it’s going to be bigger and better than ever. I’m really proud of the amazing speakers and exhibitors we have lined up.

“Running a business, being self-employed is really challenging. But if you allow yourself even just one day for yourself this year, it should be the Festival of Enterprise. I guarantee you’ll come away feeling inspired and ready to do business in 2025.”

This year businesses from across Greater Manchester are speaking and exhibiting at the immersive experience featuring a diverse line-up of inspirational speakers, networking opportunities, and an array of vendors and stalls showcasing innovative products and services in a unique festival atmosphere.

These include small businesses like Koko Blossom, based in Tameside who will be exhibiting at the event. Laura Brownhill, its founder, said: “I’m excited for the opportunity to have a Koko Blossom stall at the Festival of Enterprise. As well as being a great opportunity to promote the business, I’m looking forward to meeting and learning from fellow entrepreneurs.”

The event will feature inspiring talks from industry experts such as Nadine Merabi – creative director of Nadine Merabi Ltd, James Hamilton – CEO of Pixeltree, Sarah Cross – founder of CODE Beautiful and Jordan Dargue – co-founder of Lifted Ventures on topics such as ‘Mastering Marketing,’ ‘The Power of Exporting,’ and ‘Finance for Success.’

There will also be chances to pitch before a live audience and get feedback, network, and take part in interactive workshops, as well as enjoy live entertainment.

Register now to attend: Festival of Enterprise Tickets, Fri, Mar 14, 2025 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite

Road improvement works set for Ashton New Road

Helen Greaney

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11/03/2025

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Road improvement works set for Ashton New Road

Vital resurfacing works are due to take place along Ashton New Road.

Improved roads were top of the agenda from residents who were quizzed by Manchester City Council.

Over the first few months of 2025 a programme of resurfacing works has been taking place along some of Manchester’s most-used roads.

From Monday, March 17 works will begin to resurface Ashton New Road between Alan Turing Way and Clayton Lane.

Weather permitting, these works are expected to take two weeks, and will take place overnight to minimise disruption to nearby residents and businesses, with the road being closed between the hours of 7pm to 5am.

Work will take place Monday to Friday, with no closures taking place during the weekend.

Marshalls will be on hand to ensure there is continued access for residents maintained via Clayton Lane, Wilson Street, Alan Turing Way, Ravensbury Street, and Clayton Street.

Councillor Tracey Rawlins said: “We are continuing at pace our 2025 programme of resurfacing across Manchester, putting in place much-needed improvements to ensure our road network is up to standard.

“While there will be some disruption during the course of these works the council and its contractor will endeavour to keep delays to a minimum as well as working during off-peak hours to keep the road open during busy periods.

“I’d like to thank people ahead of time for their patience during this short period of disruption.”

Merlin’s Magic Wand Brings the Ocean to St Ann’s with New Playground

News Desk

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11/03/2025

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Merlin’s Magic Wand Brings the Ocean to St Ann’s with New Playground

A brand-new ‘London Under the Sea’ Magic Space has been unveiled at St Ann’s School in Hanwell, thanks to the charitable efforts of Merlin’s Magic Wand in collaboration with Merlin Entertainments.

On Friday, 7th March, students and staff at the school witnessed the transformation of their outdoor area into an interactive and sensory-rich playground designed to encourage creativity and exploration. The project, which took a year to complete, was made possible by the dedication of 40 corporate volunteers from Merlin Entertainments.

Rebecca Hudson Betts, Project Manager at Merlin’s Magic Wand, remarked: “We are so proud to be able to offer this London Under the Sea sensory space to the children of St Ann’s School. It’s our mission as a charity to create Merlin themed experiences that spark joy, foster connection and create lasting memories for everyone to enjoy. This project is an example of the magic Merlin can make for children who need it most. We hope the space inspires wonder for every child at St Ann’s!”

The London Under the Sea playground offers a dynamic environment that engages students through a blend of tactile, soothing and ocean-themed features inspired by the city’s unique character. Features include: a London skyscraper sensory seating circle, a Tower Bridge climbing wall, music chimes, a water wall and a London Underground-themed sensory tunnel.

Headteacher Timmy Holdsworth expressed his appreciation, saying: “On behalf of everyone at St Ann’s, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Merlin’s Magic Wand and their incredible volunteers for creating our new sensory area.

“This thoughtfully designed space is a transformative gift for our students—a place where learning, exploration and connection with the natural world come alive in vibrant and engaging ways.”

The official unveiling was attended by students, families, and representatives from Merlin’s Magic Wand, Merlin Entertainments, and Merlin Magic Making, who joined in celebrating the opening of this exciting new sensory space.

Using EquitiesFirst financing to adjust to a potentially volatile Japanese Yen in 2025

Finance

News Desk

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10/03/2025

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Using EquitiesFirst financing to adjust to a potentially volatile Japanese Yen in 2025

The Japanese yen stands at 152.34 against the US dollar as of early February 2025, following a peak of 158.33 in early January.

The drop followed the Bank of Japan’s decision to raise rates from 0.25% to 0.5% in January. But the yen still faces significant pressure as 2025 unfolds, with some market strategists projecting movement toward a critical 160 level against the US dollar.

Alternative financing firm EquitiesFirst has developed specialised solutions to help investors navigate these challenging market conditions.

Japan last intervened in currency markets when USD/JPY approached 1/161 in July 2024, a 38-year low for the yen. However, the Bank of Japan’s cautious tone at its latest meeting marks a stark departure from its hawkish signals in 2024. This relative uncertainty can create challenges for investors attempting to position themselves around Japanese monetary policy.

For those managing currency exposure, financial services firm EquitiesFirst, a global provider of long-term equities-based financing solutions, could offer strategies to adjust to market volatility while maintaining long-term investment positions.

Central bank dynamics driving currency movements

Recent BoJ decisions highlight the complex factors influencing yen movements. While the central bank maintained its benchmark rate at 0.25% in December 2024, the increase to 0.5% in late January 2025 was a response to persistent inflation above the BoJs target of 2%, with core inflation averaging 2.5% in 2024 and December’s reading reaching 3%.

Some market predictions have the BoJ raising rates to around 0.75% in July. Economic indicators present a mixed picture. Third-quarter GDP growth in 2024 slowed to 1.2% from the previous quarter’s 2.2%, while consumption increased by a modest 0.7%.

November 2024 export data showed a 3.8% year-on-year value increase, driven by chipmaking machinery and nonferrous metals. However, export volumes declined 0.1%, suggesting the value growth primarily reflected yen weakness. Investment firm EquitiesFirst has recognized the complex challenges faced by investors in this environment.

At the same time, the US Federal Reserve’s measured approach to rate cuts could compound pressure on the yen this year. A recent report from leading economic advisory firm Oxford Economics projects that prolonged dollar strength might persist, particularly as markets process the implications of Donald Trump’s second presidency. Their analysis suggests US policy uncertainty could affect Japanese business investment decisions as significantly as domestic policy changes.

The research further suggests that if a global trade war emerges amid changes in US trade policy under Trump, Japan could face targeted tariffs. Their “global trade war” scenario projects possible recession risks for Japan in 2027 and 2028, driven by higher tariffs, weakened global demand, and further yen depreciation.

While direct export impacts might remain contained, there could be broader effects on manufacturing profitability and financial markets, with Oxford’s modelling indicating potential GDP impacts of minus 0.15% during peak periods of adjustment from 2025 to 2027.

Asian currency markets

The Japanese yen’s trajectory reflects broader fundamental shifts reshaping Asian currency markets. Thailand’s central bank acknowledges heightened baht volatility stemming from geopolitical pressures and policy uncertainties. Global finance provider EquitiesFirst has developed specialised financing solutions to help investors navigate these complex regional currency dynamics.

In Malaysia, the ringgit’s turbulent start to 2025 suggests how quickly market sentiment can shift in response to dollar dynamics. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s monetary authorities face mounting pressure as the rupiah’s weakness tests their easing measures, highlighting the complex interplay between currency stability and growth objectives.

The Indian rupee has hit historic lows against the dollar in the early weeks of 2025, and a potential decline in China’s renminbi presents an underappreciated risk to the yen. Goldman Sachs analysis indicates the yen shows greater sensitivity to renminbi movements compared to global peers. US tariff increases on Chinese imports could prompt Beijing to allow currency depreciation as an offsetting measure, potentially creating additional downward pressure on the yen.

Each currency’s story, while distinct, points to a common thread: the profound influence of US monetary policy on Asian financial markets.

Equities-based financing

Against this backdrop of currency volatility, equities-based financing could provide options for investors. EquitiesFirst, for example, enables investors to finance against their existing portfolio of securities to access liquidity while maintaining long-term market exposure.

Equities-based financing can serve multiple purposes in volatile currency environments. Investors can establish currency hedges without disrupting core portfolio positions. Quick access to liquidity could enable investors to capitalise on price distortions created by currency movements. And flexible financing can facilitate rapid portfolio adjustments in response to changing market conditions.

Risk considerations

The BoJ faces complex policy choices as 2025 progresses. While their inflation projections suggest gradual progress toward their 2% target, persistent yen weakness complicates this normalisation timeline.

Kazuo Ueda’s recent comments indicate a deliberate approach to rate adjustments, with no rush to raise rates, and an emphasis on the need for clear wage trend data expected in March or April.

But finance minister Katsunobu Kato’s recent warnings against speculative yen selling highlight official concern about currency market dynamics. With the dollar reaching 158.33 yen in early January, approaching levels that prompted intervention last July, market participants should prepare for potential official action.

Equities-based financing represents one tool within a broader risk management framework for foreign exchange market strategies. While it cannot eliminate currency risk, it can provide investors with options to maintain long-term position

Levenshulme school’s safety boost for road safety investment

Helen Greaney

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10/03/2025

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Levenshulme school’s safety boost for road safety investment

A Manchester primary school is among the first to benefit from an investment into road safety in efforts to better keep pupils safe.

Alma Park Primary School in Levenshulme, has welcomed an introduction of double yellow lines near the school for children and parents on the school run to avoid the dangers posed by unauthorised parked cars as well as cars travelling in and out of the area.

The school is the first to have the major new road safety measures installed as part of Manchester-wide project funding from Clean, Green, Safer, Investment Programme.

The £15 million investment project, which will be carried out over three years, will improve factors such as local roads, green spaces and replacing all litter bins.

Around £2.2 million of the investment will be exclusively used to continue improving road safety for children and parents. Whether they choose to walk, cycle or ride into school they can be assured that active travel in their communities will be supported by becoming cleaner, greener and safer.

Some areas will also get new double yellow lines, while others will see new bee-adorned bollards, guard rails outside busy schools and speed bumps all with the aim of fostering a safe environment for everyone.

The investment back into local communities is a wider push in recognising Manchester as a Child Friendly City where children feel safe to walk, wheel or cycle to school.

Following the double yellow lines being installed, Alma Park Primary School has seen a significant reduction in anti-social parking outside the school. Children and parents have reported feeling more confident in travelling to and from the school, now knowing they can comfortably be in the area without the dangers of unwarranted cars.

Richard Williams (pictured far left), headteacher at Alma Park Primary School, said: “As a result of the double yellow lines more children can now more safely and confidently cycle, scoot or walk to school without the obstruction of parked cars on Errwood Road.

“We hope to see a reduction in air pollution around the school and I am very pleased to see the real-life benefit of the Council’s investment taking shape. We hope this will continue to encourage our community to embrace active travel.”

Councillor Tracy Rawlins (pictured) said: “I am thrilled to see the installation of double yellow lines outside Alma Park Primary School and how it has already had an impressive impact on the safety of children and parents during the school run.

“This initiative, part of our Clean, Green, Safer Investment Programme, aims to improve general safety across the city and foster better community relations as we stem the flow of traffic and make areas feel safer for everyone. It’s great to see how this is also encouraging residents to actively walk or cycle to school.

“I look forward to seeing the continuation of this project and how we can instil confidence in other school communities in Manchester.”

£500,000 worth of plants seized in major ‘cannabis farm’ crack down

Crime

Helen Greaney

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10/03/2025

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£500,000 worth of plants seized in major ‘cannabis farm’ crack down

More than 700 cannabis plants, worth a staggering £500,000 street value, have been seized from six cannabis farms.

During Operation Mille, a national operation aimed at detecting and disrupting Organised Crime Groups (OCGs) linked to cannabis cultivation, money laundering, and immigration crime, Greater Manchester Police executed nine warrants across the county.

Police forces across England and Wales – working with Regional Organised Crime Units (ROCUs) and partner agencies – all took part in the intensive activity, which is designed to apprehend key players, increase intelligence across the force, and safeguard those who are being exploited by the gangs and forced to live and work on cannabis farms.

Results from the operation showed there has been significant disruption to organised crime networks up and down the country.

Cannabis cultivation and serious crime are linked, with the profits funnelled into fuelling further criminality and exploitation.

Cannabis farms pose a fire hazard to residents due to potential faulty electricals; they can also pose anti-social behaviour (ASB) issues for local residents, with people coming and going from the locations at different hours of the day and night.

As result of this operation across Greater Manchester alone, four people were arrested and three people have been charged and remanded.

Detective inspector Abigail Thomas said: “Organised crime gangs distributing drugs blight our communities, causing fear and harm for residents with total disregard for others, interested solely in their own gain.

“I hope our intensive action sends a clear message to them that we are watching, and we will continue to pursue them and disrupt their criminal activity to protect our communities.

“We would like to let people know that we do take any intelligence submitted by the public seriously, and we will act on it – it plays an important role in our investigations. Please, let us know if you have any concerns about drug activity in your local area.”

Oxygen Activeplay – Manchester’s newest entertainment park opens

Entertainment

Helen Greaney

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10/03/2025

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Oxygen Activeplay – Manchester’s newest entertainment park opens

Oxygen Activeplay at Salford’s MediaCity has finally opened, offering a whole host of exhilarating activities.

We took a trip down to Quayside – a great location for it – to the park, which is packed with 24 trampolines, a jumping bag, high rope course and soaring above us, a very high Sky Rider aerial ride.

Before we let our kids loose, we went through a mini immersive world, with laundry machines to jump into and a laundry maid who makes some rather windy noises. Mello Lello Land was a particular favourite with kids jumping all over trying to avoid digital moving lemons and eggs while trying to hop across a river.

As soon as we got into the park, it was straight up to the high ropes to be strapped up with a hard hat and more safety gear than you could shake a stick at. Trying to get across some rope bridge was a bit sore in socks but we were up for the six challenges.

We then had to get across a high bridge with slats deliberately missing, purely relying on balance and nothing to hold onto and later, navigate some large orange swinging balls as we were climbing steps.

Next it was onto the Power Tower – a multi-storey soft play climbing canopy with nets, slides and more. At the top there was a great view over the park.

There were plenty of other activities including trampolines which we had a bounce on before heading over for a jump onto the mega airbag – this was super popular.

They also enjoyed the Strike Arena, where players can form a team or take on a solo mission, to navigate their way through obstacles to strike lit-up targets and score the most points.

And while all this is going on, near the ceiling there are thrillseekers taking turn to get in a harness on the Sky Rider.

High above the park, bouncers over 120cm can take on the exhilarating high ropes course and navigate across six challenging crossings, while thrill-seekers who are 135cm or taller can get a sky-high feeling as they take flight and soar over the park on a harness on the Sky Rider.

For small people, there was a great soft play area, ringed off from the main park, which was a great offering for under 5s to play safely.

We were gutted to miss the Neon Night party, which takes place on the first Friday (6-8pm) of every month, where the lights are turned down low, the music is pumped up and the disco neon lights are on full blast.

While we didn’t have time to go in the cafe, it had plenty of seating with lots of hot and cold food and drink options available. Options included Oreo & Strawberry Pancakes, bacon rolls, classic spaghetti bolognese and halloumi sticks, pizzas, jacket potatoes and lots more.

There was also a birthday party room to eat, with plenty of options open to those thinking of booking an event.

Overall we had a great time but it was very busy when we arrived at 2pm on Saturday. If you do a plan a trip in the near future, we would avoid peak times.

Book tickets here: https://oxygenactiveplay.co.uk/my-account/

Levy Artisan Market in Levenshulme set for Spring opening

Events

Helen Greaney

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08/03/2025

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Levy Artisan Market in Levenshulme set for Spring opening

A new monthly artisan day and night market to open in Levenshulme from April.

Manchester City Council and Independent Street – known for its successful events around the North West – have collaborated to bring a new market offering on the former, much loved Levy Market site.

The new market which will be known as Levy Artisan Market will bring freshly baked produce, independent food stalls, and unique artisan products to the vibrant area.

Levy Artisan Market will launch on Sunday, April 13 and will take place the second Sunday of every month. There will also be an exciting night market on the last Friday of every month from April 25.

Garry Bridges, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We are really proud to welcome Independent Street’s Artisan Levy Market onto the site, the end product of a collaborative approach to bring a new market offering to the people of Levenshulme.

“The new market will provide a unique space for small businesses, artisans, and food vendors, allowing them to thrive whilst also contributing to the local economy and offering residents and visitors access to high-quality products, delicious street food, and a welcoming social environment.

“We hope it will become more than just a market – but rather a hub for creativity, enterprise, and community spirit.”

The monthly Sunday Artisan Markets at Levy will offer family-focused events, from live entertainment and children’s workshops to food tastings and cultural celebrations, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The monthly Friday Night Markets will offer a newly designed food court area with a large selection of street food, plus live music, good vibes and a large seating area.

Lisa Cowley, director of Independent Street, said: ‘’We are thrilled to have been selected to launch this iconic market back onto the Manchester Market scene.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome back Levy’s loyal customers and introduce The New Levy Artisan Market to a new generation of visitors. With a focus on community, sustainability, and high-quality, local produce, we hope to make Levy Artisan Market the heart of Manchester for years to come.”

The Levy Artisan Market is set to showcase Manchester’s rich tapestry of Artisans and creators and also serve as a catalyst for driving footfall into Levenshulme’s established shops, cafes, restaurants and independents. It will once again continue to emphasise supporting small businesses and providing a space for entrepreneurs to thrive.

To celebrate the launch, Levy Artisan Market will be hosting a grand opening event on Sunday April 13, featuring live music performances, incredible artisans, a street food area plus a free crafting table and activities for its smallest visitors. The event will run from 11am and everyone is invited.

Organisers are on the hunt for local community groups and musicians to join in. Applications to trade can be made through the website: independentstreet.co.uk