| New plans are set to go out for public consultation on the future layout of two key Manchester city centre roads. |
| In February and March, Manchester City Council announced plans to make improvements to John Dalton Street and Bridge Street.
The aim was to improve how people get around the city centre and to focus on what elements could be improved. During that consultation, members of the public said there was popular support for widening footpaths along these roads, increasing space for people queuing at bus stops and creating new crossing points. But concerns were raised regarding the width of the carriageways and how if they were made narrower it would increase congestion and negatively impact the goals of this scheme. Taking this on board Manchester City Council is launching the next stage of the consultation process, with people being invited to give their opinions on the new changes. ChangesBus stops – Bus stops in John Dalton Street and Bridge Street will be incorporated into laybys, rather than in the carriageway. This will allow traffic to flow while buses are stopping and prevent potential disruption during peak times. Bus stops will also be made longer to allow two buses to stop at the same time without interrupting traffic. Pedestrians – Footways are to be widened where space allows, especially at junctions where people gather in large numbers to cross. Additional crossings are to be added in the following locations
Loading bays – These bays will remain accessible for businesses between 6-10am, after which they will revert to footways during the remainder of the day. On the north side of Bridge Street (pictured) and John Dalton Street, loading arrangements have been changed to help keep traffic lanes clear, with loading allowed for up to 15 mins at non-peak times. There are also additional bays on side streets with longer loading periods. Additional provision will also be made for taxis as well as disabled spaces for parking, with new spaces for both being added. Engagement eventsEngagement events will be taking place in person and online, the details of which can be found below. Drop-in event: Monday, December 9, 4-7pm, Friends Meeting House, 6 Mount Street,M2 5NS Email [email protected] to receive a link to a Microsoft teams meeting. Councillor Tracey Rawlins said: “This project gives us an opportunity to make positive changes around how people travel in the city centre. We want people to view the city centre as a great place to live, work or visit and to achieve that we need to make bold changes. “These two streets are some of the most-used routes in the city and its important that we ensure the public’s views are reflected in any future changes that may take place. “We want to make the city a safe and easy place for people to get around by walking or wheeling, as well as making it more accessible for people using public transport. I’d encourage everyone to please take part in this consultation so that their voices are heard.” |
New consultation to take place regarding city centre roads
Oldham police sniff out drugs in deodorant cannister
Two men have been arrested after Oldham police seized drugs hidden inside a deodorant cannister.
Officers spotted a woman approaching a parked Volkswagen Golf with two occupants inside.
On inspection and testing, the vehicle and its occupants were identified as being reportedly involved in the supply of illegal drugs.
Police reported finding a small amount of cannabis and hidden in the vehicle were 100 wraps of heroin and cocaine – concealed within Lynx fragrance deodorant and WD-40 cannisters.
These were seized, along with three mobile phones and hundreds of pounds.
Two men (both 22) have been arrested on suspicion of selling class A drugs. Both men have been bailed pending further enquiries.
The vehicle was seized for having no insurance.
PC Patel, from GMP’s Operation Venture, said: “Once again this job highlights how effective our proactive patrols are in clamping down on those intent on committing crime.
“We all know drugs have a devastating impact on society. As suspected criminals look to find ways to conceal their wrongdoings from us, we are also adapting and evolving to ensure we stay one step ahead of them, and we will catch them out.
“We’d like to encourage the public to continue to submit intelligence as we do act on it and use it when we can.
“You can contact us on 101 or through our LiveChat via the GMP website. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”
Don’t Miss Wisetek Market EU’s Black Friday Refurbished Tech Sale
Black Friday is here, and Wisetek Market EU is offering some of the best deals on refurbished tech, combining savings with sustainability.
Until 6th December, tech lovers can find incredible discounts on a variety of refurbished gadgets, just in time for the holiday season.
While Black Friday is known for its deep discounts on everything from laptops to phones, the growing problem of e-waste makes eco-friendly choices essential. Wisetek Market EU provides sustainable options with its selection of refurbished laptops, phones, tablets, and more for the EU market.
Why choose refurbished tech? Let’s explore what it really means.
Choosing refurbished tech is a smart, sustainable way to nab premium performance and reliability without the premium price tag. Each product at Wisetek Market EU undergoes thorough inspection, cleaning and restoration (when needed) to ensure it functions like new. With nearly 15 years of expertise in recycling and reusing IT equipment, Wisetek Market delivers high-quality refurbished devices that are as dependable as their brand-new counterparts. Backed by a complimentary 12-month warranty and options for extended coverage, you can shop with confidence knowing your device is built to last. It makes the finest of top-shelf tech products both more accessible and affordable.
Shopping refurbished isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s good for the planet too. By choosing refurbished tech, you’re reducing e-waste and conserving precious finite resources like neodymium, terbium, and cerium, which are essential for electronics production but are becoming increasingly scarce. Wisetek Market EU is committed to sustainability with a zero-landfill policy, ensuring every piece of equipment is reused, recycled, or repurposed.
With a wide range of items including laptops, MacBooks, tablets, phones, desktops, monitors, and accessories, there’s really something for everyone. So, whether you’re upgrading your work setup, searching for a powerful gaming machine or browsing for that ideal Christmas present, Wisetek Market EU offers high-quality refurbished products to suit every need. Did you know that in certain cases you can stand to knock up of up to 60% off the recommended retail price? Refurbished tech is a practical, eco-conscious choice that benefits both your budget and the environment.
The benefits of serviced apartments for business travellers
Serviced apartments are a great choice for business travellers and their employers because they balance cost and employee well-being. The majority of large organisations use serviced apartments for business travel for longer periods but exactly why are they preferred over a hotel, for example?
For anyone who has never booked or stayed in a serviced apartment let’s take a look at three of the main benefits.
Safety and comfort are assured
Whether you’re away from home temporarily or relocating more permanently for work, or moving around the world for assignments and projects, or managing business travel for important meetings and events, safety is paramount for business travellers staying in unfamiliar locations.
For stays from just one night to a month or even a year, it’s a priority that business travellers feel safe and comfortable in their accommodation.
Serviced apartments are closely vetted to comply with local legislation and best practices, as well as for the standard and quality of the furniture and equipment. Standards are closely monitored in a way they might not be with casual rental bookings.
Service accommodation owners and booking agents also consider more qualitative factors makes a real difference to the people staying in an apartment while away from home on business. Factors such as shower pressure, nearby road noise, comfortable pillows and quality of towels and bed linen.
Serviced apartments are self-contained units where guests can come and go as they please or even work from the apartment with a desk and good wi-fi as standard. People can live in home-from-home comfort reassured of comfort and the latest security compliance. Yet they also have the benefits of regular cleaning and maintenance (for long term stays). This means serviced apartments are the perfect option for all types of corporate guest including those with a disability or mobility issues.
Cheaper but also better than hotels
Serviced apartments are cheaper than hotels so are more cost-effective for business travel, but also provide more home-away-from-home comforts than hotels for the traveller. Firstly, they have full kitchen facilities and cooking equipment in every apartment so people are less reliant on takeaways and dining out during their stay.
Guests can maintain healthy eating habits and reduce expenses while staying in a serviced apartment. They often have private laundry facilities or free communal laundry rooms so guests don’t need to pay inflated hotel prices for laundry during their stay.
Serviced apartments also have more space compared to hotels with living and dining areas as well as the kitchen and bedroom(s). Plus, generous storage space so guests can take all the things they need for a pleasant stay when away long-term.
Even in some locations where serviced apartment nightly rates are similar to hotel rates, overall trip expenses can be reduced on things like food and laundry, while giving the traveller a better experience, especially on longer trips when hotel rooms can start to become claustrophobic and people start to tire of restaurant food.
In the UK there is also a financial benefit from longer stays in service accommodation in the form of VAT reductions for stays longer than 28 days.
A more sustainable choice
Compared to hotels, serviced apartments are a more sustainable accommodation option. Serviced apartments consume less energy than hotels which have excessive energy use from frequent laundry, and large common areas that require heating and lighting throughout the day and night.
In serviced apartments guest can choose to have less frequent cleaning and linen changes, recycle their food and other waste, and continue with the sort of sustainable approach they follow in their own home. This can help minimise how much business travel impacts the environment. It’s not a perfect solution but, when business travel is essential, as it sometimes is, then it is reassuring to know that the environmental impact can be reduced as much as possible.
Globetrotting Roger ends eight-decade career
Engineer Roger Clegg has called time on an incredible 73-year career – including more than a quarter of a century at waste management specialist CSG.
Roger (88) has worked on major engineering projects around the world including in Egypt, Poland and Romania.
For the last 26 years he has worked at CSG’s Cadishead base as an engineering consultant, during which time he oversaw the construction of processing plants in Glasgow, Bromborough, Plymouth and Middlesbrough.
Reflecting on his retirement, Roger – who is a member of the Institute of Chemical Engineers, Institute of Mechanical Engineers and a senior member of The Welding Institute – said: “I have had a great career and I’ve enjoyed almost all of it.
“My time at CSG – or Lanstar Holdings as it was when I started before the buy-out – has been brilliant. I have project managed some very interesting projects and every job has been different.
“CSG has really looked after me over the years. I’ve been allowed to use my expertise without micromanagement, but they’ve always stepped in when I’ve needed help.
“I’m dreading retirement to be honest. I think I’ll sleep for a week then continue with my multiple duties in the church and go to visit my son in Bulgaria.”
Roger’s engineering odyssey began as an apprentice at Metropolitan-Vickers in 1951.
Roger’s National Service was deferred until he was 23 as he was engaged in an apprenticeship and night school, but eventually the red letter did drop through his door and he joined the Merchant Navy, stationed in Liverpool.
“I can’t say I was looking forward to National Service so I joined the Merchant Navy and that turned out to be a good experience serving on ships around the Caribbean, Peru, El Salvador and the Mediterranean,” said Roger. “I was actually in Havana in Cuba when Fidel Castro took control, which was an experience.”
After his stint in the Merchant Navy, Roger worked for Pilkington Brothers Ltd in St Helens, during which time he was briefly prime suspect in an FBI investigation into leaked design plans due to his recent spells in Cuba and Yugoslavia.
He moved to Petrocarbon Limited in Manchester, during a period when the company was involved in the design of the Carrington chemical plant, and later worked for Matthew Hall Engineering, BiWater and Huntsman before making his final move to CSG.
Neil Richards, managing director of CSG, said: “Roger has been an incredible member of the team, bringing extraordinary knowledge and leadership over 26 years.
“CSG has always been built around people like Roger, who knows the industry inside out. He will be missed by us all and we wish him well as he begins his retirement.”
CSG employs more than 650 people nationally, supporting a national network of waste treatment and recovery centres.
Scams warning as self assessment deadline looms
Self assessment filers are warned to be on their guard after 150,000 scam referrals to HMRC were made in the last year.
With millions of people due to complete their self assessment tax return and pay any tax owed by January 31, 2025, fraudsters are targeting people with offers of tax refunds or demanding payment of tax to get hold of personal information and banking details.
Around half of all scam reports (71,832) in the last year were fake tax rebate claims.
There has been a 16.7% increase in all scam referrals to HMRC – 144, 298 were received between November 2023 and October 2024, up from 123, 596 in the previous 12-month period.
If someone receives communication claiming to be from HMRC that asks for their personal information or is offering a tax rebate, check the advice on GOV.UK to help identify if it is scam activity.
HMRC will never leave voicemails threatening legal action or arrest, or ask for personal or financial information over text message – only fraudsters and criminals will do that.
Kelly Paterson, chief security officer at HMRC, said: “With millions of people filing their self assessment return before January’s deadline, we’re warning everyone to be wary of emails promising tax refunds.
“Being vigilant helps you spot potential scams. And reporting anything suspicious helps us stop criminal activity and to protect you and others who could have received similar bogus communication.
“Our advice remains unchanged. Don’t rush into anything, take your time and check ‘HMRC scams advice’ on GOV.UK.”
HMRC will not contact you by email, text, or phone to announce a refund or ask you to request one. Anyone who is due a refund from HMRC can claim it via their online HMRC account or the free and secure HMRC app.
You can report any phishing attempts to HMRC by forwarding emails to [email protected] and forwarding suspicious texts claiming to be from HMRC, to 60599
Swagable and Prezzee Redefine Gifting for Events with eGift Cards
Swagable, innovators in virtual swag bags, have partnered with Prezzee, the eGift card leader, to introduce an eco-friendly and personalised solution for event gifting. Announced ahead of the B2B Marketing Expo at ExCeL London on 27th November, this collaboration sets a new standard for rewarding event attendees.
Swagable’s virtual swag bags replace physical giveaways with digital content, making it easier for organisers to share discounts, offers, and resources. Delivered through simple links sent via email or event platforms, these swag bags eliminate the waste associated with traditional gifts while offering a streamlined experience.
With the integration of Prezzee eGift cards, Swagable expands its offering, allowing organisers to include custom cards redeemable at hundreds of retailers. Featuring options for bespoke branding and themes like “coffee or lunch cards,” these gifts deliver personalisation and value, enhancing the attendee experience and reinforcing connections.
“We’ve redefined SWAG (that’s ‘Something We All Get’) to mean gifts that people actually want, without the leftover tote bags and plastic clutter,” said Catherine Grinyer, Founder of Swagable. “A few years ago, while hosting a virtual conference, we realised there was no accessible digital solution for swag bags, so we partnered with tech experts to create one. With our virtual swag bags and the new Prezzee integration, we’re delivering personalised, useful gifts that attendees can redeem whenever and wherever they choose. We’ve also collaborated with digital accessibility experts to ensure Swagable is inclusive and benefits everyone.”
Since February, Swagable has been praised for its sustainable approach and ability to provide detailed engagement metrics, such as click-through rates and conversions. By adding Prezzee eGift cards to its digital swag bags, organisers can now offer meaningful gifts while maintaining a waste-free approach.
“This integration solves the common challenge for event hosts: ‘What are we going to gift our attendees?'”, said Davide Stec, Business Development Director at Prezzee. “Instead of giveaways that are often discarded, eGift cards let attendees choose something they truly value while giving organisers the chance to reconnect post-event with personalised messages and reinforce their brand presence.”
New Zealand v England, first Test: Preview, expected line-ups, how to watch and prediction
The State of Play
England open their three-Test series in New Zealand tomorrow against a team still riding the crest of a wave following their remarkable win in India.
The Black Caps triumphed 3-0 on the sub-continent, producing one of the greatest performances in Test history, and will be full of confidence against Ben Stokes’ side.
India are already bouncing back having won the first Test against Australia in Perth.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead told Cricinfo: “No doubt it [beating India] gives you confidence as a group but it shows the ebbs and flows of international cricket.
“You can see what’s happening in Perth, I’m not sure anyone would have written that script either. The WTC has made teams extremely competitive, teams try and get somewhat of a home advantage to pick up your points there.
“[I am] Sure it’s going to be a cracker of a Test series. We’re going to see some fireworks I would suggest.”
England fared less well than New Zealand on their most recent tour, a 2-1 defeat in Pakistan.
A special day in Christchurch 🥰
Greeted by a hongi welcome, followed by a cup of tea with the oppo ☕️ pic.twitter.com/biEHdHr62e
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) November 26, 2024
Team News
New Zealand have former captain Kane Williamson available after he missed the tour of India. He may replace Will Young despite his Player of the Series award against Rohit Sharma’s men.
The hosts will play four seamers at Hagley Oval with Tim Southee starting his final series before Test retirement. Kyle Jamieson misses out through injury.
England have been forced into a reshuffle with Jordan Cox, who would have kept wicket, ruled out of the series due to a broken thumb.
Ollie Pope will don the gloves and Jacob Bethell has been drafted in to bat at number three despite having never played there in first-class cricket.
Expected line-ups
New Zealand: Latham (c), Conway, Williamson, Ravindra, Mitchell, Blunder (wk), Phiilips, Smith, Henry, Southee, O’Rourke
England (confirmed): Crawley, Duckett, Bethell, Root, Brook, Pope (wk), Stokes (c), Woakes, Atkinson, Carse, Bashir
“Create some history for your country”
Ahead of the first contest for the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy hear from Ian Smith and Joe Root on the two men who inspired the trophy. #NZvENG pic.twitter.com/y8jkWF37Jh
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) November 26, 2024
What They Said
Stead on Williamson’s return
“Obviously Kane will come back into the side. He’s a superb player as we know and that creates some selection headaches for Tom [Latham] and I to get our heads around in the next day or so. Kane is one of the best in the world, so he will be playing somewhere in that line-up. It’s just how we manage to shape the rest of the team around that.”
Joe Root on Bethell’s inclusion
“He’s full of confidence, he’s got great ability and a really well-rounded game. He’s a mature head on young shoulders and I think he has all the components to set him up nicely to be successful in this format and at this level. I’m sure he’ll enjoy every aspect of the week, I’m really looking forward to watching him do his stuff.”
How to watch
The series will be shown by TNT Sports and discovery+ in the UK.
The action gets underway on TNT Sports 4 at 9.30pm tomorrow night.
Prediction
New Zealand continue to overachieve given their resources and their recent win in India was truly incredible.
They ought to have too much here for an England side that looks a little imbalanced following Cox’s injury.
That said, England have the firepower to blow any side away and the conditions won’t be completely alien like they were in Pakistan.
20 Stories’ Daniel Scott hailed ‘Leading Chef of the Year’
Daniel Scott has been named Leading Chef of the Year at the 6th annual This is Manchester Awards.
Currently the executive head chef at the popular 20 Stories restaurant in Manchester city centre, Daniel’s career as a Michelin-trained chef spans over 27 years.
He prides himself on working closely with producers, farmers and fishermen from around the UK and Ireland, to showcase some of the finest quality and most ethically-sourced produce in the world. He has worked in his current role since 2021.
The ‘This is Manchester Awards’ are designed to showcase the talented individuals that make Manchester a remarkable place to live, work, and thrive, with a mission to recognise excellence across various sectors including hospitality, culture, technology, business and community.
Daniel (pictured) was shortlisted in the Leading Chef of the Year category, alongside seven other talented chefs from across Greater Manchester.
He said: “To be awarded Leading Chef of the Year is a real honour both for the team and I. We put in so much hard work each and every day to ensure every visit is exceptional and memorable for our guests, and to have this recognised is great for the team. The This is Manchester Awards are very well respected, so to receive this award from them is fantastic. Thank you so much.”
Integritas Property Group Completes Landmark Bastion Point Project
Integritas Property Group (IPG), a premier North West property developer, has proudly announced the completion of Bastion Point, its largest residential development to date.
Located in Liverpool’s bustling city centre, Bastion Point exemplifies the company’s dedication to creating modern, high-quality homes designed with residents in mind. Its strategic location ensures excellent transport links and close proximity to Liverpool’s renowned waterfront and cultural attractions.
The development’s apartments feature open-plan designs with stylish, contemporary interiors and impeccable finishing touches. Large windows bring in abundant natural light, creating bright and inviting living spaces.
Mitchell Walsh, CEO of Integritas Property Group, said: “As we hand over Bastion Point, we’re thrilled to see our vision come to life; this development isn’t just about creating homes, it’s about enhancing Liverpool’s residential landscape with spaces that add value and foster a sense of community.
“With communal areas designed for relaxation and socialising and our unique sky gardens that offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle, Bastion Point is a testament to the collaboration of talented individuals and trusted partners who share our vision. It’s a pleasure to know that Bastion Point will soon be home to many who’ll love Liverpool as much as we do.”
Established in 2021, Integritas Property Group has quickly gained recognition for its integrity and focus on quality. The company’s mission is to revitalise communities across the North West, with a portfolio including The Lyceum in Manchester, Copper Box in Liverpool, and Deakin’s Yard in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
This year, IPG delivered 300 apartments and has set an ambitious target of producing 600 units annually by 2027, further contributing to the region’s transformation.
