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Public consultations begin today for sustainable homes plan

Helen Greaney
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Public consultations begin today for sustainable homes plan

A further £5.1 million council funding has been approved to progress the next four This City development sites to the planning submission stage.

The plan aims to bring forward around 600 new sustainable houses, of which at least 20% will be affordable homes.

The new projects include sites in north and east Manchester, alongside a city centre development, that will each use brownfield land to increase new home building in the city.

The new funding will support initial design work and surveying costs that are necessary to deliver a planning application next year – and engagement on two new sites will begin this week for:

Hyde Road, east Manchester – around 150 homes

  • The sites include land off Hyde Rd and Kirkmenshulme Lane, adjacent to the Co-op Academy Belle Vue
  • Engagement event will take place tomorrow between 3.30pm and 7pm at Longsight and District Sports and Social Club, 140 Kirkmanshulme Ln, Manchester M12 4WB

Monsall, north Manchester – around 175 homes in the first phase (multiple phases in the future)

  • The sites include land adjacent to Monsall Road and Upper Monsall Street, north of the Monsall Metrolink Stop (pictured).
  • Engagement event will take place on Wednesday (November 6) between 3.30pm and 7pm at the Dance Hall, Manchester Communication Academy Secondary School, 2 Silchester Dr, Manchester M40 8NT

These are informal events where the public can meet the design team, ask questions about the development opportunities at each site and give their feedback about what it’s like to live in the local area.

Attendees to the events will have the chance to view information boards that give headline detail about This City and the proposed housing investment in their area and share their experiences through prompts and activities.

Feedback can also be given via email: [email protected]

Following this initial public engagement, design work will be progressed ahead of further formal public consultation early 2025.

Planning application for these two sites are expected later in 2025 with the aspiration to start on site before the end of the 2025 financial year.

The next two This City developments include:
  • Postal Street, Northern Quarter – an estimated 130 homes

The demolition of the former single-story commercial building has already been completed, allowing design to progress. This funding will support the project through to the planning stage, and This City are aiming for a public engagement event in early 2025 with a target start on site before the end of the 2025 financial year.

  • Grey Mare Lane, east Manchester – an estimated 150 homes

Masterplanning for the Grey Mare Lane estate has already been completed as part of a partnership between Manchester City Council, Great Place Housing Group, One Manchester and This City to deliver a whole estate regeneration package in east Manchester. Early design work is now underway ahead of further targeted engagement from This City which will begin in the first half of 2025.

No1 Ancoats Green (formerly Rodney Street development) will deliver 129 new homes, including 119 apartments and 10 town houses. 30% of these homes will be made available at the Manchester Living Rent. Completion of this scheme is expected in the summer of 2025.

No 1 Ancoats Green will overlook a transformed Ancoats Green, with the development site moving seamlessly into the improved city centre park. This investment will include new walking and cycling routes through the neighbourhood, along with significant new planting – wildflower and wetland planting, and a range of new trees, alongside new accessible play equipment and open grassed areas.

Councillor Gavin White said: “This City is an innovative approach to increasing the number of homes being built in our city. This company allows us to build directly on council-owned brownfield land on our own terms.

“Building the homes that our residents need, particularly sustainable and genuinely affordable homes, is challenging, but This City is giving us the opportunity to take control of our own home development and deliver the type of housing we know our city needs on our own terms.

“It’s fantastic to see the next tranche of sites come forward quickly with the potential to deliver around 1,500 homes through future phases, and we could see development begin as soon as next year.

“Local people in Monsall and Longsight now have the opportunity to find out more about proposed new housing in their area and I would urge people to get along to events this week to find out more, ask questions and give feedback.”

Police seek witnesses following attempted knife point robbery in Ardwick

Helen Greaney
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Police seek witnesses following attempted knife point robbery in Ardwick

Officers are appealing to speak to individuals who could assist them following reports of an attempted knife point robbery in Ardwick.

The incident happened on Ardwick Green South at around 3.40pm on Sunday.

It was reported that the victim was riding on his moped when he was threatened with a knife and assaulted, resulting in him being pushed off his vehicle.

The victim sustained minor injuries and was treated by paramedics at the scene.

Officers investigating this incident have followed up with several lines of enquiry and are now in a position to ask for the public’s assistance.

Anyone who anything suspicious on Ardwick Green around 3.40pm, or has information, is asked to call 101 quoting log 2050 of 03/11/2024.

Alternatively, you can remain anonymous by contacting independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

University of Manchester launches report addressing its impact on UN Sustainable Development Goals

Helen Greaney
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University of Manchester launches report addressing its impact on UN Sustainable Development Goals

The University of Manchester has released a new report setting out how it is tackling the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As the UK’s first university to have social responsibility as a core goal, The University of Manchester is committed to supporting the 17 issues outlined by the UN as the most pressing facing humanity and the natural world, which include quality education, gender equality, reduced inequalities, climate action and sustainable cities and communities.

The University of Manchester is facing these challenges head on and, for 200 years, it has responded to the needs of its city, the nation and the world. The university understands there is a profound obligation on great research universities to meet the challenges set out in the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The university’s strategy to meet these challenges is comprised of four inter-related strands: research, learning and students, public engagement and operations.

In the Times Higher Education Impact rankings, based on performance across the 17 goals, The University of Manchester is the top-ranked institution in the UK and in Europe, and second in the world.

Manchester is the only university in the world to have featured in the global top 10 each year since the rankings were established in 2019.

The university is also proud to be the top performing institution in Europe for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance in the QS World University Sustainability Rankings.

Dr Julian Skyrme, executive director of social responsibility and civic engagement, said: “This latest publication summarises some key ways that we’re addressing the world’s biggest action plan, reflected in the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It is part of our broader commitment to reporting and sharing progress towards these important global goals.”

The report outlines that The University of Manchester published more than 22,000 pieces of research on the Sustainable Development Goals over the past five years, which is 4% of the UK’s entire share of publications.

It details teaching and learning programmes that address the SDGs, such as the ‘Creating a Sustainable World’ interdisciplinary unit.

The report also draws attention to the role of the university’s four cultural institutions, other initiatives that are engaging the public with the goals, and the ways in which people, estate and finance operations are contributing to sustainable development.

It is hoped the report stimulates the exchange of ideas, collaboration opportunities and partnerships so that, together, everyone can play a role in tackling these crucial goals by 2030.

Win Christmas by visiting Stockport fitted furniture showroom

Helen Greaney
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Win Christmas by visiting Stockport fitted furniture showroom

Stockport residents are in for a festive treat with My Fitted Bedroom & Kitchen’s exclusive ‘Win Christmas’ event.

Visit the Factory Showroom on Buxton Road (A6), Heavily, and book a free design consultation before mid-December to enter a draw for a £500 shopping voucher!

From now until mid-December, anyone who books a complimentary bedroom or kitchen design consultation at the showroom will automatically be entered into a draw for a chance to win a £500 shopping voucher, just in time for Christmas! The lucky winner will be chosen at random on December 16.

 Neil Coote, showroom manager, said: “Tis the season of giving, and our ‘Win Christmas’ event is our way of saying thank you to everyone who visits us in-person for a design appointment. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or ready to plan your dream fitted bedroom or kitchen, our showroom is the perfect place to explore ideas and work with our experts. Plus, every in-showroom consultation is absolutely free!”

While My Fitted Bedroom operates nationally online, this special Win Christmas event is exclusive to the showroom and visitors are encouraged to book their design consultation early, as entries are limited to appointments held before the festive season.

Located on the A6 in Heavily, the Stockport showroom showcases an inspiring range of fitted kitchens and bedrooms, bespoke media rooms, home office solutions, and luxurious walk-in wardrobes. It offers a hands-on experience for homeowners to explore the latest designs, colours, and layouts.

A My Fitted Bedroom & Kitchen design appointment is a great way to work with an expert designer to explore unique options and innovative ideas that will maximise every inch of space with smart storage solutions, even those awkward corners and empty alcoves. State-of-the-art 3D software allows customers to experiment with different combinations and visualise how the beautifully handcrafted fitted furniture will look in their space.

To book appointments visit myfittedbedroomsandkitchens.com  or call 0161 476 1380.

Social gastronomy summit in Adana focuses on sustainability

News Desk
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Social gastronomy summit in Adana focuses on sustainability

Adana recently made headlines by hosting Türkiye’s first-ever summit on social gastronomy and agriculture in October, part of the 8th International Taste of Adana Festival. Organised under the guidance of the Adana Governor’s Office and the Switzerland-based Social Gastronomy Movement (SGM), the event focused on food sustainability, local farming practices, soil health, irrigation methods, and agriculture’s environmental footprint. The summit drew international attendees, including chefs, farmers, and entrepreneurs from countries like Switzerland, the Netherlands, Mexico, the USA, and the Philippines.

The summit was led by Chef Ebru Baybara Demir, the first Turkish chef to win the 2023 Basque Culinary World Prize and recognised by the UNFAO as a Global Food Hero. The event brought together international delegates with local farmers, chefs, and entrepreneurs from Çukurova, aiming to address the future of agriculture and offer sustainable solutions to global challenges.

One notable initiative during the summit was the Universal Plate, a project launched by SGM and implemented simultaneously in 40 countries. Celebrating World Food Day, chefs and participants in Adana prepared and distributed meals to 2,500 people, joining global efforts to promote equal access to nutritious food.

A shared vision for sustainable food systems

“Our objective with this summit is to unite the key players in food sustainability—farmers, chefs, scientists, and community leaders—under a single vision. Partnering with the Social Gastronomy Movement demonstrates the deep connection between agriculture, food, and social change,” explained Ebru Baybara Demir. “I believe this summit will be a foundation for future collaborations focused on addressing soil health, food security, and sustainable agricultural development.”

Themed “Taste of the Soil,” the summit brought together a diverse range of participants, from local farmers and international experts to government officials and students from agricultural faculties. The discussions aimed to tackle today’s agricultural challenges and find forward-looking solutions.

Among the main topics discussed was soil health and its significance for sustainable farming. The Çukurova region, renowned for its fertile lands, was highlighted as an example of where sustainable practices could be implemented and scaled globally. Water management and efficient irrigation methods were also key points of discussion, as experts underscored the effects of climate change and the need to conserve water to sustain crop production.

Nicola Gryczka, co-founder of SGM, noted, “Food sustainability extends beyond farming and cooking; it’s about creating an ecosystem where each person has a role, from the farm to the table. By fostering education, diversity, and collaboration, we can build resilient food systems that serve everyone.” He added, “Adana’s Agriculture Summit marks the start of a journey. We hope this collaboration strengthens our efforts to create a more inclusive and sustainable food future, laying the groundwork for future initiatives.”

Local perspectives and future goals

YavuzSelimKosger GovernorofAdana

Local officials stressed the importance of the summit for Adana and its potential to inspire wider agricultural developments. Governor Yavuz Selim Köşger noted, “Adana’s diverse agricultural output is proof of the region’s fertile soil. Ensuring safe and accessible food from soil to fork remains a key priority.”

Mayor Zeydan Karalar spoke about the importance of Adana’s agricultural landscape: “Adana has one of the most fertile plains in the world, enriched by its rivers. As climate change increases risks for agriculture, it is essential to protect and harness our lands. Every crop grown must retain its value, and we are dedicated to ensuring this.”

For more information on the summit and its initiatives, visit the Taste of Adana Festival’s website.

Contact: Karolin Ergin | O2 İletişim | [email protected] | 05323845711

Brazilian Grand Prix 2024 Results: Verstappen Takes ‘Unbelievable’ First F1 Win Since June

Ben Miller
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Brazilian Grand Prix 2024 Results: Verstappen Takes ‘Unbelievable’ First F1 Win Since June

Max Verstappen said he had been through an emotional “rollercoaster” after surging from 17th to win the Brazilian Grand Prix 2024 and put himself on the brink of retaining his Formula One world title with a first F1 triumph since June.

In a race featuring a red flag and two safety car appearances among a slew of incidents, Verstappen – demoted from 12th to 17th on the starting grid in a penalty for exceeding his engine allowance with a new power unit – soared six places on lap one and profited from Red Bull’s decision to resist pitting early.

Verstappen overtook Esteban Ocon on lap 43 and stormed to victory by more than 19 seconds, with his nearest rival in the driver standings, Lando Norris, taking sixth.

Sao Paulo GP: Verstappen Wins

“We stayed out of trouble, made the right calls and stayed calm,” said Verstappen. “We were flying. All of these things together made that result possible.

“I mean, unbelievable – to win here from so far back on the grid. It’s very hard to pass around here with the new tarmac. There’s only one line you can take but I just knew that I had to go for it.”

Norris is 62 points behind Verstappen with 86 points and three races of the 2024 season remaining.

Brazilian Grand Prix Results

Ocon missed out on a second ever race win but helped lift Alpine to sixth in the constructors’ championship by finishing second on a podium completed by team-mate Pierre Gasly.

“What a day that was,” reflected the Frenchman. “After a difficult season, it’s really nice to be driving here and having the performance levelled out in the rain.

“Someone very important to all of us said a long time ago that in the rain the cars are almost equal. That phrase didn’t age at all.

“I’m very happy today to be on podium. It’s been awesome and the support I receive here from all the Brazilian fans is incredible. I can’t thank everyone enough.

“The car was extremely difficult on the dry and it felt at ease when it started to rain.

“I really wanted to get some laps in the rain. I love it here in the rain. Today has brought a special race for us.”

Brazilian Grand Prix 2024: Piastri on F1 sprint pole as Norris says he ‘hates’ Verstappen questions

Ben Miller
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Brazilian Grand Prix 2024: Piastri on F1 sprint pole as Norris says he ‘hates’ Verstappen questions

Oscar Piastri plans to “make sure it stays that way” after taking pole position in qualifying for Saturday’s sprint at the Brazilian Grand Prix 2024.

McLaren’s Piastri will start immediately ahead of team-mate Lando Norris on the grid, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc third and reigning world champion Max Verstappen, of Red Bull, in fourth.

“My first lap didn’t feel amazing but I knew that there were a few places to improve,” said Piastri, who has won the Grands Prix in Azerbaijan and Hungary this season.

“The second lap was good and the tyres hung on. It’s going to be a very different kind of sprint to last year, with the resurfacing, so we’ll see what the weather does.

“But I’m starting from the best seat in the house, so I’ll make sure it stays that way.”

Sao Paulo GP sprint results

Piastri finished outside of the sprint points placings in 10th last season, with Verstappen winning after starting in second, ahead of Norris, who began on pole.

The winner of the sprint receives eight points, with each of the seven places behind incrementally receiving a point less.

Verstappen leads the driver standings, although Norris cut his lead to 47 points by winning in Mexico last Sunday.

Norris: Verstappen position ‘doesn’t matter’

“I don’t care,” Norris replied when he was asked about Verstappen. “I hate these questions so much.

“I don’t care where he qualifies. For me, it’s just about focusing on my own job, and that’s it.

“It’s the same questions every time but it doesn’t matter if he starts first or last. I’ll do the best I can.

“I was surprised at how quick we were today – a pleasant one. I just made too many mistakes on my final lap.”

Mayor reports “unacceptable” rail service is hindering growth in the North

Helen Greaney
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Mayor reports “unacceptable” rail service is hindering growth in the North

Mayors in the North have written to the chancellor and secretary of state for transport calling for their support in addressing declining rail services operated by Northern.

Andy Burnham – the mayor of Greater Manchester – called an emergency meeting of the Rail North Committee, which he chairs, on Wednesday.

It saw regional mayors and leaders seek immediate assurances from Northern after a spate of cancellations, overcrowding and ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings on Sundays.

But Northern said it had no option due to high levels of staff sickness – and that cancellations are always its “last resort”.

Mr Burnham said: “It’s feared, without intervention, the situation could get worse, affecting confidence amongst shoppers and travellers at the busiest time of the year.”

The meeting saw leaders interrogate the operator’s remedial plan to get services back to an acceptable standard as swiftly as possible.

The committee heard there had been a notable spike in cancellations, with the past week – half-term for many schools – seeing around 1,600 trains cancelled across the network – almost 10% of services – with a lack of mitigations in place such as ticket acceptance with other operators.

Weekend travel

Mr Burnham reported that Do Not Travel’ warnings had been issued on 45 occasions on Sundays across Greater Manchester routes, in many cases with no replacement bus services or alternative travel methods provided.

He said: “Efficient and reliable public transport is a critical enabler of economic growth, a key ambition we share with the new government. What we heard from Northern at the meeting of the Rail North Committee was not good enough for residents and businesses across the north.

“That is why, on behalf of the Rail North Committee, I have written to the chancellor and the secretary of state to urge them to support us to bring the service back to an acceptable level. Significant modernisation is needed by Northern if they are to match our ambitions for growth.

“The Committee will be closely scrutinising Northern’s plan and seeking assurance that they are addressing the points raised at the meeting, when the Committee meets again on 20 November. We would welcome the Government’s full support in implementing the necessary actions, especially in the urgent areas of Rest Day Working and resolving Sunday arrangements.”

High levels of staff sickness

A Northern spokesperson said: “We are sorry for our recent performance and accept it has not been good enough. Cancellations are always a last resort and only applied when we have no other option. 

“We are experiencing high levels of staff sickness and train crew availability remains an issue in the North West, especially on Sundays which rely on crews volunteering to work additional hours. 

“We are keen to re-introduce rest-day working for our train drivers and agree a way forward on staffing Sundays with our conductors, by working closely with them and their union representatives.”

He added that the Christmas period is always a challenging time for the railway, particularly when terms and conditions for train crew mean Northern is relying on volunteers to work and staff wanting to spend time with their families, and this may exacerbate Northern’s existing issues with train crew availability.

Northern says its priority is to give customers as much certainty as possible about their journeys so they can plan their travel in advance, adding it would continue to review demand and train crew availability over the Christmas period and let customers know of any changes.

The spokesman added: “We have not yet made any decisions about changes to the timetable or pre-cancelling services which we would do in full consultation with stakeholders.”

Image credit: Bardhok Ndoji

Moment of calm: Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa

Helen Greaney
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Moment of calm: Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa

If you’re looking to impress your partner for a special anniversary or perhaps a cheeky Christmas treat, check out Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa. 

Having recently had a £1 million refurbishment, it really is the premier resort with something extra.

Situated in Cheshire, its historic grandeur seamlessly blends 17th-century opulence with a contemporary experience. With its striking exterior, stained glass windows and historic feature rooms, it’s makes quite the impression when you make your way up the long driveway.

The most impressive element of the refurbishment is the introduction of “The Sheridan Bar,” a stunning new Moët & Chandon Champagne and cocktail bar but the investment also included an overhaul of guest bedrooms in the modern wing.

CREWE HALL SHERIDAN BAR 21

On arrival, we were greeted by a friendly receptionist who showed us to a tranquil, candle-lit relaxation room, where we had to wait for our therapists.

I opted for the 50-minute relaxing face and back treatment, which was fabulous. It started off with a shoulder and back massage which was great  – a firm maintained pressure throughout which was needed for a series of stubborn knots. My cheery therapist used Elemis products which smelt devine. This was followed by a thorough back exfoliation – and to be honest, who can ever reach there to scrub themselves – and my skin was so smooth afterwards. I  can never say no to a scalp massage – the perfect way to melt away tension – and that, along with a facial to deal with fine lines, was amazing.

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My friend chose 2 mini x 25 minute treatments which were the Elemis personalised express facial, which she enjoyed as her therapist did a skin consultation first to ensure they products would work well for her. As it turned out, she was incredibly dry, so she had a series of beautiful hydrating cleansing, exfoliating, toning and moisturising products, including a mask, which left her skin feeling content – not at all tight, as some products do.

Her final treatment was the back, neck and shoulder massage which used Elemis Oil to encourage optimum circulation. She left so relaxed – and begging to back for a second round!

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Next it was time to venture to the pool and the facilities there, all were very clean and welcoming. We were delighted to find the 25-metre pool which was quiet and cool, plenty of room to lap up and down, and after a few lengths a jacuzzi was just the ticket – and again, we didn’t need to share, as there was plenty of room for guests to lounge about around the pool. One lady took advantage and was fast asleep in her lounger and only woke up as we left, tranquil indeed!

Of course the sauna got a visit, the tropical rain shower in varying downpours was delightful and the steam room was popular with all guests.

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After some great chilling out, lunch was calling so we headed to the brasserie for some refreshments. It had a relaxed atmosphere with a varied seasonal menu. My friend opted for the bacon, brie and cranberry panini, and I had the fish finger wrap – both served hot, well prepared and tasty. Intolerances were well catered for by staff.

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The cardio gym was also impressive – it has a clear focus on strength training with many dumbbells and benches to choose from. It also offers a high energy indoor spin class workout.

We enjoyed our visit – and will have to stay the night next time as the new bedrooms looked delightful. The staff were incredibly friendly, especially the young waiter who served us. If we were going to be extra fussy, we would have loved to see an outdoor jacuzzi or similar but no complaints as far as we were concerned.

There are a great range of spa days to choose from, and all come with full use of the hotel’s Health Club and a complimentary robe to relax in. To book yours, visit: Spa in Cheshire | Spa Deals in Stoke on Trent | Crewe Hall Hotel

England need to be ‘smart’ after West Indies thrashing

Tom Rostance
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England need to be ‘smart’ after West Indies thrashing

Stand-in captain Liam Livingstone says England have to “get up to speed as quickly as possible” and be smarter with the bat after an eight-wicket thumping by the West Indies in the first One Day International in Antigua.

With captain Jos Buttler out injured and several Test stars unavailable, England gave debuts to Jordan Cox, Dan Mousley, Jamie Overton and John Turner but they were all out for just 209 in 45.1 overs.

Livingstone himself top scored with 48 from 49 balls but Sam Curran (37) was the only other batter to pass 30.

England’s efforts were put into perspective by opener Evin Lewis’ 94 off 69 balls, which helped the Windies chase down a rain-adjusted target of 157 in 35 overs with ease.

Livingstone insisted England will not change tack for Saturday’s second ODI, which they must win to keep the series alive, but he has suggested his batters in particular can adapt better.

“We’ve got to get up to speed as quickly as possible,” Livingstone said after his England captaincy debut ended in a heavy loss.

“We had four debuts and they’ll have learnt a hell of a lot from what they experienced and hopefully they’ll come on from that.

“We’re not going to take a backward step but sometimes we’ve got to be a little bit more smart. Hopefully conditions will be a little bit different (on Saturday) and we can go again.”

Livingstone elected not to call upon seam bowling all-rounder Jamie Overton, who was essentially a specialist batter at number eight and got a golden duck after being given out lbw on review.

“He’s not fit to play a full role,” Livingstone said. “He’s coming back from a big (back) injury. We’re just trying to nurse him back in. We had three seam options so we didn’t really think we’d need him.”

England have now lost 12 of their last 18 ODIs, stretching back to the start of last year’s 50-over World Cup.

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