Business Manchester

Teens sentenced for disorder in Bolton

Crime

Helen Greaney

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03/10/2024

Two teenagers have been sentenced for disorder in Bolton in which officers were spat on.

Officers policing the violent disorder on Sunday, August 4, were met with hostile crowds as they worked to prevent the unrest and protect the local communities.

In one incident, a group of around 15-20 youths surrounded a police sergeant carrying out liaison duties, with one 14-year-old male spitting directly in his face before running away.

Following extensive CCTV work, the teenager, who can’t be named for legal reasons, was identified and brought before the courts where he subsequently pleaded guilty to violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker.

He was referred to a youth offender panel for a total of nine months, with a parent / guardian required to attend the meeting and must pay compensation of £100.

In the same incident, a 15-year-old male stole an officer’s operational hat and was seen running away from the scene. He was later spotted throwing a bottle at another group of officers. He was ordered to pay costs of £85 in addition to a surcharge of £26. He must additionally follow a curfew between 9.30pm and 5am daily, and must present himself to an officers who asks to see them between those times, for a period of three months.

They have additionally been referred to a youth offender panel for a period of 12 months and must pay compensation of £500.

Both were dealt with at Manchester and Salford Magistrates court, on Monday and Tuesday .

Detective inspector Paul Costello said: “The violence we saw against officers during the unrest over the summer was utterly deplorable. These men and women left their families each day to protect the communities which they serve day-in, day-out, and to see them spat on, attacked, and assaulted during their tour of duties was sickening.

“These two teenagers were part of a wider group which degraded and attacked an officer carrying out his job. These sort of incidents are disgusting to see and we continue to investigate all instances of violence from the summer disorder in Bolton and indeed across Greater Manchester. This has seen us secure more than one hundred arrests and charges, with lots of work still to come.

“As we continue with our work, I would urge anyone with any information about any of the incident across Greater Manchester to please get in touch.”

Mike Peake, chair of Greater Manchester Police Federation, said: “1,861 officers in GMP were assaulted last year. That’s an average of more than 35 every week. More than five every single day.

“Police officers are not robots. We are mothers and fathers. Sons and daughters. Husbands, wives and partners. We should not come under attack for doing our difficult job.

“We are not society’s punchbags – and those assaulting police officers should face severe consequences every day of the year.”

Information about disorder can be submitted via police portals

Outside Rochdale police station on Thursday, July 25 – https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP24S78-PO1
On Oldham Road in Newton Heath on Wednesday, July 31 – https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP24S74-PO1
In Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester city centre on Saturday, August 3 – https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP24S75-PO1
On Mosley Street in Manchester on Saturday, August 3 – https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP24S77-PO1
In Bolton town centre on Sunday, August 4 – https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP24S76-PO1

Transport secretary opens £200 million rail manufacturing factory

Transport

Helen Greaney

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03/10/2024

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Transport secretary opens £200 million rail manufacturing factory

Hundreds of jobs, faster tube journeys and regional growth are expected thanks to a new rail manufacturing plant officially opened by transport secretary Louise Haigh (pictured).

She attended the £200 million site – Siemens’ Rail Village in Goole – to open it today.

The plant will be home to hundreds of high-skilled jobs where almost 100 new state-of-the-art Piccadilly Line trains will be manufactured and assembled.

In a further boost to the region, Siemens Mobility is also announcing up to a further £40 million towards a new Bogie Assembly and Service Centre at the site which will create up to 200 extra jobs.

The world class hub has been made possible by the government’s funding settlements with TfL, giving Siemens the confidence to invest in the site.

It represents the scale of what can be achieved through joint public and private sector support – and underlines the Government’s commitment to attracting international investment.

The grand opening comes ahead of the government’s International Investment Summit on October 14, which will bring together some of the world’s most influential companies and major investors.

The summit will be an opportunity for the prime minister and cabinet to outline how the government will provide the certainty and opportunities businesses need to make Britain the best place in the world to invest.

The government is focused on creating the conditions for businesses to invest, through trust partnership and stability. We will fix the foundations by investing in the jobs, industries and infrastructure of the future to rebuild Britain and make everyone, everywhere better off.

As part of this drive, the transport secretary is working to end the ‘boom and bust’ approach to rail manufacturing by delivering a long-term industrial strategy for rolling stock.

Ms Haigh said: “This impressive, world-class facility will be transformational to Goole and its people, providing a boost to the region’s economy and supporting hundreds of skilled jobs.

“Its opening demonstrates the importance of high quality, long-term investment to pave the way for employment and growth.

“I know how vital rail manufacturing is to our economy, which is why we will not sit on our hands when it comes to supporting it. For too long, the cycle of boom-and-bust has held back this sector.

“That’s why I am determined to put an end to the stop-start approach to investment and provide the industry with the certainty it needs to deliver a railway that is fit for the future.”

The new Piccadilly Line trains are expected to start serving the London Underground network next year, delivering a boost to reliability, extra services for passengers and increased capacity.

They will be fully air-conditioned and more accessible, creating more comfortable journeys for the travelling public.

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “This train manufacturing facility in Goole is a fantastic example of the expertise we don’t have and how investment in London benefits the whole country. This factory, where the new state-of-the-art Piccadilly line trains will be built, will create up to 900 direct jobs and support another 1,700 in the supply chain, delivering great benefits to the wider UK economy, showing that where London succeeds, the whole country succeeds and vice versa.

“I’m excited to continue working together with the new government to build a better, fairer and more prosperous London, and country, for everyone.”

Sambit Banerjee, joint CEO at Siemens Mobility said: “After more than a decade of tremendous dedication and hard work, we have officially opened our state-of-the-art Rail Village in Goole which is testament to our commitment to the North of England.

“We’ll assemble 80% of London’s new Piccadilly line trains and all future Siemens trains for the UK including our Verve battery train here in Goole and I’m pleased that we are supporting the local supply chain in the process.”

Innovation in Business: Jack Mason’s Strategy for Effective Transformation

Business

News Desk

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03/10/2024

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Innovation in Business: Jack Mason’s Strategy for Effective Transformation

Innovation is crucial for businesses aiming to succeed in today’s rapidly changing world. Jack Mason, a key figure in business leadership, combines innovation with resilience to guide companies through change and drive growth. His approach emphasises adaptability, allowing businesses to not only keep up with market changes but also to thrive.

As the Group CEO of Inc & Co, Jack Mason uses a forward-thinking leadership style that has positioned the company as a leader in the UK economy. Known for turning distressed companies into successes, his strategies reflect a blend of innovation and collaboration. His blueprint focuses on equipping businesses with the tools needed to transform challenges into opportunities.

Businesses looking to stay ahead can learn a lot from Mason’s methods. His vision supports the idea that embracing change through strategic innovation is essential. This approach not only boosts individual company success but also contributes positively to broader economic growth, especially in the dynamic UK market.

Cultivating a Culture of Innovation and Growth

A culture of innovation and growth requires clear strategies and leadership that understands both the emotional and strategic aspects of business.

Strategies for Innovation

Innovation thrives in environments that embrace change and adaptability. Companies need to implement innovative strategies that address current and future market demands. This includes fostering a culture of continuous improvement where employees feel encouraged to share ideas and take risks.

Open communication is essential to this process. When teamwork and collaboration are prioritised, resilience becomes a natural outcome. The CEO plays a crucial role in promoting these values, ensuring that the workforce is aligned with the company’s mission.

Strategic Planning and Vision

For a company to achieve long-term success, strategic planning must be at the forefront. This involves crafting a clear strategic vision that outlines paths to strategic growth. Companies need to be efficient in how they allocate resources, ensuring that they meet not only current needs but are also prepared for future challenges.

Adaptability is key; the ability to pivot and adjust plans when necessary. Leadership needs to maintain a focus on sustainability, making sure that growth aligns with ethical and environmental responsibilities.

Leading with Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a vital trait for leaders aiming to promote a culture of innovation. It involves understanding and managing one’s own emotions and those of others, fostering strong relationships within the team. Leaders must be empathetic and approachable, encouraging open communication among employees.

By leading with emotional intelligence, a CEO can inspire trust and loyalty. This approach creates a positive work environment where employees feel valued and motivated. Such leadership contributes to the successful implementation of innovative strategies and aids in achieving strategic goals.

Embracing Digital Transformation and Data Analytics

Digital transformation and data analytics are reshaping how businesses function. Companies leverage technology and data to meet customer needs and gain a competitive edge. AI and analytics tools drive customer engagement and improve decision-making processes, unlocking new market opportunities.

Role of AI and Technology

AI and technology have transformed how businesses operate. They help in automating tasks, enhancing operational efficiency and providing insights for better strategy development. Companies like Jack Mason’s use AI to anticipate market trends and consumer behaviour. By leveraging these technologies, businesses can adapt swiftly to changes and enhance their competitive advantage. AI tools also help identify patterns in vast datasets, enabling more informed business decisions. Embracing digital tools provides firms with new ways to innovate and create value.

Driving Customer Engagement

Engaging customers in today’s digital world involves understanding their needs and preferences. Digital tools enable personalised experiences that can increase loyalty and satisfaction. Businesses gather data through various channels and use it to tailor services and products. Jack Mason’s focus on technology enhances interactions and provides seamless customer experiences. By leveraging digital platforms, companies connect with consumers in more meaningful ways. This proactive approach not only meets but often anticipates customer demands, fostering long-term relationships.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Data analytics plays a crucial role in shaping business strategies. By analysing customer data, companies identify market opportunities and make informed decisions. Analytics allows businesses to measure their performance accurately and optimise their operations. Mason’s strategy incorporates data-driven methods to refine approaches and enhance market research. Businesses use analytics to track trends and modify strategies accordingly. With reliable data insights, companies can develop strategies that align with evolving consumer behaviour and market dynamics.

TGV Invests $2m in Rapidly Growing Art Platform Printler: Paving the Way for Global Expansion and AI Integration

Business

News Desk

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03/10/2024

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TGV Invests $2m in Rapidly Growing Art Platform Printler: Paving the Way for Global Expansion and AI Integration

TGV 4 Plus Fund (TGV) has announced an additional $2 million investment in Printler, a move that is set to transform how independent artists reach a global audience. The investment consists of a combination of secondaries and a convertible note.

Printler has experienced an impressive growth rate of 73% in 2024, far outpacing the European e-commerce market, which grew by less than 10%. Despite this, the platform has only begun to tap into the European market, with significant opportunities still untapped. Plans for a non-European launch are in the pipeline, targeting an even larger market as AI technology continues to connect buyers with the right artists globally. Printler’s 2024 turnover is projected to reach $7 million, with estimates of over $10 million in 2025. The company has been cash-flow positive since mid-2023.

Andreas Holmgren, Printler’s CEO, commented on the deal:

“TGV is adding extra power with their global reach and partner network, and I am happy that we could find a way to onboard TGV deeper into the company.”

Printler’s use of AI has already proven effective in matching customers with artworks that align with their personal preferences. With TGV increasing its involvement, the company can now focus even more on refining these AI tools, improving the experience for both buyers and artists, and enabling further scaling and personalisation.

Fredrik Adolfsson, TGV’s managing partner, said:

“Printler’s success so far shows the strength of combining AI with a unique marketplace. We’re excited to help them build on these results. With our global presence, we are confident that we can support Printler in bringing this vision to a much larger audience.”

Andreas Holmgren, CEO of Printler, also shared his vision for the company’s future:

“Art is personal. Intelligent technology is crucial to make it easier for buyers to find the pieces that truly resonate with them. With TGV’s global network, we’re able to focus on enhancing these capabilities to offer an even better experience for both artists and art lovers as we continue our international expansion.”

About Printler

Printler is a Swedish creator platform that connects independent artists with art lovers. As of today, Printler is active on 14 European markets, where millions of customers find close to 100.000 artworks from over 17.000 artists on the marketplace. By focusing on AI-driven matchmaking, Printler aims to make art effortless to sell and discover, empowering creators to monetize their art. The platform was brought to life in 2020 by founders Andreas Holmgren and Andreas Önstorp, remaining large shareholders along with Stockholm-based Longrun Capital and Singapore-based TGV.

Buy your mind-blowing art print on www.printler.com

About True Global Ventures, TGV

TGV 4 Plus Fund invests in AI and blockchain-driven companies globally. TGV backs visionary entrepreneurs in sectors including AI, entertainment, technology infrastructure and financial services in early stages and beyond Series B.

INTO University Partnerships Launches ‘Get Work Ready’ Program to Boost Employability for International Students in the UK

Education

News Desk

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03/10/2024

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INTO University Partnerships Launches ‘Get Work Ready’ Program to Boost Employability for International Students in the UK

INTO University Partnerships has unveiled an innovative online program, Get Work Ready, aimed at helping international students in the UK develop essential employability skills alongside their academic studies to support their future career paths.

Employability is a top priority for international students coming to the UK. According to INTO’s 2024 Global Agent Survey, 87% of the 1,240 recruitment partners surveyed highlighted career opportunities as a crucial factor for students when deciding to study abroad.

David Rafferty, Director of Technology Enhanced Learning at INTO University Partnerships, said: “At INTO University Partnerships, we recognise the challenges international students face in a new academic and professional environment. Our Get Work Ready program is designed to empower students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in their future careers.”

The Get Work Ready program is a flexible, self-paced online learning course that equips students with the tools to navigate the complexities of the UK job market and enhance their employability. The program provides tailored advice on the UK job market, workplace culture, and practical strategies for applying their skills to future roles.

David Rafferty added: “Studying and planning to start a career in a new country can be daunting. With Get Work Ready, we aim to demystify the UK employment landscape and give our students the confidence and skills they need to excel.

“This program reflects our commitment to student success, both academically and professionally, by offering practical, accessible, and relevant resources.”

All students enrolled at one of INTO’s nine UK-based pathway Centres will have access to the course, providing an additional layer of support focused on bridging the gap between education and employment.

The program is structured into five comprehensive modules, which students can complete in any order. Centres may choose to integrate the course into the academic curriculum, allow students to complete it at their own pace, or guide them through specific modules at designated times throughout the academic year.

The five units include:

1. Skills for the Workplace

This unit helps students to explore the key transferable skills that employers seek in new hires, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. It provides a helpful starting point for students to consider their existing skills, including strengths and weaknesses, and how to apply these in a professional environment.

2. INTO Your Future

This unit helps students understand the UK graduate employment market, identify their own career goals and how to identify opportunities to build skills and engage in activities that align with this.

3. Brand You

Here, students learn how to stand out in the competitive job market by identifying and articulating their unique skills and attributes such as on their CV, covering letters, and LinkedIn profile.

4. INTO Your Career

This unit is focused on specific elements of the job application process and offers practical guidance on CV writing, interview techniques, how and where to search for appropriate roles, and crafting a world-class elevator pitch.

5. Preparation for Placement

This optional module provides guidance for students with plans to undertake an internship or work placement. Topics include tips on adjusting to a corporate environment, communicating effectively with colleagues, and how to make a lasting impression.

Designed to be flexible and engaging, the program’s content is delivered through short videos, interactive activities, and quizzes, ensuring an engaging learning experience that students can complete at their own pace.

Poh Leng, Academic Director at INTO City, University of London, said: We are excited to empower students to enhance their professional skill set with the innovative ‘Get Work Ready’ program. Its flexible nature allows the content to be tailored to meet the evolving needs of students, and equip them with essential employability skills as they progress throughout their studies and beyond.”

The program is progressively rolled out to students, with the first unit being rolled out in December 2023. The program will be rolled out across all UK Centres in the 2024-25 academic year, ensuring that all students have access to the full range of resources as they advance in their studies.

To further meet the growing demand for long-term employability support for international students, INTO has also recently introduced its innovative Return & Connect initiative for students planning to return to their home countries after graduating. Return & Connect supports international students secure employment by connecting them with employer and alumni networks, both virtually and in person, providing valuable in-market work experience and networking opportunities during and after completing their studies abroad.

INTO University Partnerships connects talented international students with leading universities in the US, UK, and Australia. Since its inception in 2005, INTO has helped over 150,000 students from more than 180 countries achieve their dream of obtaining a degree from a world-class institution.

FargoInvestor.com Review Unveils the Strengths and Weaknesses of Broker

Business

News Desk

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03/10/2024

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FargoInvestor.com Review Unveils the Strengths and Weaknesses of Broker

Fargo Investor is a trading platform known for its diverse features and services catering to various trading needs. This FargoInvestor.com review thoroughly examines the platform’s offerings, including its broad range of digital coins, diverse asset classes, and global market access. The platform accommodates novice and experienced traders by offering flexible leverage options, mobile-friendly trading, and advanced analytical tools.

Despite its strengths, such as extensive asset coverage and real-time market analysis, Fargo Investor needs to be improved, including restricted international reach and functionality issues with its mobile application. This review aims to present a balanced view of its capabilities and areas for improvement, helping traders make informed decisions about how the platform might fit into their trading strategies.

A Wide Array of Digital Coins

One of Fargo Investor’s standout features is its impressive selection of digital coins. The platform gives traders access to cryptocurrencies, from well-known names like Dogecoin and Ethereum to less prominent ones like Ripple and Tether. The FargoInvestor.com review clarifies that this wide variety appeals to those looking to diversify their portfolios and those eager to explore emerging trends within the digital asset space.

The diversity of digital coins available allows traders to spread their risk and seize new opportunities in the ever-evolving crypto market. By offering popular and niche cryptocurrencies, Fargo Investor caters to a range of trading preferences, making it an attractive choice for those keen on experimenting with different digital currencies.

Mobile-Friendly Trading

In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to trade on the go is crucial. Fargo Investor addresses this need with its mobile-friendly platform, allowing users to manage their trades from anywhere, five days a week. This feature is particularly valuable for traders requiring constant market connectivity.

Whether users commute, travel, or away from their desks, its mobile platform ensures they can take advantage of trading opportunities. This flexibility supports the dynamic nature of trading, where market conditions can shift rapidly, necessitating immediate action.

Diverse Asset Classes

The FargoInvestor.com review explains that the broker offers various asset classes catering to various trading preferences. The platform provides access to forex pairs, blue-chip stocks, emerging market commodities, indices, ETFs, and a robust selection of digital coins.

The broker offers a comprehensive range of currency pairs for forex traders. From major pairs like EUR/USD to minor and exotic currencies, traders can access real-time data and advanced trading tools to navigate the forex market. This breadth of options enables traders to capitalise on currency fluctuations and execute informed trades.

Drawbacks of Fargo Investor

Despite its many strengths, Fargo Investor has a few areas to improve. One notable drawback is its limited international reach. While the platform is well-established in several key markets, traders from certain regions may find it challenging to access or utilise its features. This limitation could be a significant disadvantage for those seeking global investment diversification.

Another area for improvement is the functionality of Fargo Investor’s mobile app. Although the platform offers a mobile application, some users have reported that it still needs to replicate the desktop version’s capabilities fully. Issues like limited charting features and occasional bugs can affect the mobile device trading experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the FargoInvestor.com review clarifies that the broker stands out in digital trading with its extensive range of digital coins, mobile-friendly platform, diverse asset classes, flexible leverage options, and global market access. The platform’s advanced tools and real-time market analysis further enhance its appeal. However, its limited international reach and mobile app functionality could benefit from improvement.

Overall, Fargo Investor offers a comprehensive trading experience with multiple features designed to meet the needs of both novice and experienced traders. Whether you want to diversify your portfolio, take advantage of global markets, or stay updated with real-time news, Fargo Investor provides a robust platform to support a range of trading strategies.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation. The author assumes no responsibility for any actions taken by the company in the context of your trading endeavors. Please keep in mind that the information contained in this article may not be entirely accurate or current. Your trading and financial decisions are your own responsibility, and it is imperative not to solely rely on the information presented here. We provide no guarantees about the accuracy of the information on this platform and disclaim any liability for losses or damages resulting from your trading or investment actions.

BettingOnline.co.uk Expands Expertise to Online Casinos, Offering In-Depth Reviews and Strategic Gaming Advice

Gambling

Helen Greaney

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02/10/2024

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BettingOnline.co.uk Expands Expertise to Online Casinos, Offering In-Depth Reviews and Strategic Gaming Advice

New platform brings expert insights into online casinos, helping UK players find the best games and offers

In addition to being a premier resource for sports betting enthusiasts, BettingOnline.co.uk has expanded its expertise to include comprehensive guides, reviews, and tips on the rapidly growing online casino industry. The platform now offers UK players unrivalled insights into the world of online casinos, helping them navigate the complex landscape of slots, table games, and live casino experiences.

As the online casino market continues to boom in the UK, BettingOnline.co.uk aims to provide players with a trusted source for expert recommendations. The team’s deep industry knowledge, honed through years of experience in both the betting and gaming sectors, ensures that users can access the best casino platforms, bonuses, and gaming strategies available.

What BettingOnline.co.uk Offers to Online Casino Players:

Expert Casino Reviews: Detailed evaluations of top UK-licensed online casinos, covering everything from game selection and software providers to payment methods and customer service. Players can easily compare and choose the best casino that suits their preferences.
Bonus & Promotion Guides: Exclusive insights into the best welcome bonuses, no-deposit offers, and ongoing promotions, allowing players to maximize their gaming experience.
Game Strategy & Tips: The BettingOnline.co.uk team provides in-depth strategies for popular casino games, such as blackjack, roulette, and online slots, helping both casual players and high-rollers improve their chances of winning.
Live Casino Expertise: This section focuses on live dealer games and offers advice on how to get the most out of real-time gaming experiences, including tips on managing bankrolls and improving odds.

“Online casinos are one of the fastest-growing sectors in gaming, and we want to make sure our users have the best possible experience,” said Lauren Lister, Online Casino Expert at BettingOnline.co.uk. “Our team’s expertise in evaluating online casinos and understanding player needs ensures we can offer insightful, trustworthy advice.”

The Casino Experts at BettingOnline.co.uk
BettingOnline.co.uk’s team of specialists brings together professionals with deep knowledge of online gaming, casino operations, and digital security. Each casino recommended on the site undergoes a rigorous review process, ensuring that only the most secure and player-friendly platforms are featured. The team also pays special attention to player safety, recommending only UK Gambling Commission-licensed casinos that prioritise responsible gaming.

“We go beyond just listing casinos; we evaluate the entire player experience,” added Lauren. “From the quality of the games to the transparency of the terms and conditions, we ensure players can make informed decisions when choosing where to play.”

With the explosion of online casino gaming, players often find it difficult to choose the right platform. BettingOnline.co.uk fills this gap by providing detailed, unbiased information that empowers players to make smart, safe choices while enjoying top-tier casino entertainment.

About BettingOnline.co.uk
BettingOnline.co.uk is a comprehensive platform for UK players, offering expert reviews and recommendations for both sports betting and online casinos. The site delivers in-depth casino guides, bonus tips, and game strategies, all backed by a team of industry veterans. All platforms recommended by BettingOnline.co.uk are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, ensuring a safe, secure, and fair gaming experience for players.

For more information, visit https://bettingonline.co.uk/online-casinos/.

Curry Mile business owners ordered to pay £380,000

News

Helen Greaney

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02/10/2024

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Curry Mile business owners ordered to pay £380,000

Three Rusholme business owners have appeared before the courts after operating an illegal shisha café that violated the law for several years.

Bashdar Mohammed Abdullah, sole director of Tate Bashdar Ltd, allowed his building (78-80 Wilmslow Road in south Manchester) to be used as an illegal shisha cafe – known as Antalya Cafe – despite warnings to shut down the operation.

Now the businesses that ran the enterprise and the landlord, have been ordered to pay penalties worth more than £380,000 by the courts.

Abdullah, who currently lives in Iraq, pleaded guilty last year to offences under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and attended a sentencing hearing at Manchester Crown Court on September 26.

He has been ordered to pay a fine of £66,000, along with court costs of £8,193.50, and has had £176,072.12 of criminally generated income confiscated – payable by Boxing Day.

His company Tate Bashdar Limited – registered at 121 Oxford Road in Manchester – was also ordered to pay a fine of £10,000.

On September 30, the former sub-leaseholder of Antalya Cafe, Javed Karimi, and the former operator Jaan Cafe Limited, together with the director, Mary Karimi, were also sentenced for their part in failing to comply with the enforcement notice.

A confiscation order of £272,699.57 was imposed on Karimi, together with a fine of £5,000. Karimi had assets remaining of £115,865, which the court ordered to be handed over in three months. He has been given 12 months in which to pay the fines. Mary Karimi was ordered to pay a fine of £1,800.

In total, the court has ordered £382,930.62 to be paid through fines, court costs and proceeds of crime confiscations.

Council officers first became aware of the Antalya Cafe in 2018, operating as a mixed-used shisha bar, restaurant and hot food takeaway without the necessary planning permissions in place.

Material changes had also been made to the shop front of the premises which were undertaken without planning permission, along with a range of internal works.

An enforcement notice was issued against the property which ordered the landlord to cease the unauthorised use of the premises and remove any works that did not have planning permission.

Following numerous attempts by council officers to ensure compliance with the legal notice, including two visits to the premises to seize shisha pipes and tobacco, the property was still in breach of regulations four years later.

In collaboration with financial investigators at Salford City Council, the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA) was used, allowing the courts to confiscate money generated by illegal activities.

The court heard that although the enforcement notice has now been complied with, neighbouring residents have lived with the detrimental impact of the illegal operation for a number of years.

Councillor Gavin White said: “Operating illegal shisha cafes is not a victimless crime. Not only are the operators turning a blind eye to the law, but they are also putting their customers at risk and often they are a blight to the local community.

“Our residents have had to put up with illegal shisha operations on Wilmslow Road for too long. The judgement from the courts in this case, along with the confiscation of large sums of illegally obtained money, should act as a warning to similar companies that we will not tolerate businesses who have no regard for the law. Our officers are looking for you and when we find you we will use the full extent of the law to bring you to justice.

“Following a number of investigations and enforcement action on Wilmslow Road we are already seeing the positive impact of this work, allowing new legitimate businesses to move in.”

Consultation underway to redevelop disused Baptist church

Construction

Helen Greaney

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02/10/2024

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Consultation underway to redevelop disused Baptist church

A public consultation has been launched for proposals to “breathe new life” into the disused former Baptist chapel on Rochdale Road, Manchester.

The plans from Cynergy Wellness Residences aim to deliver a new health and wellness-focused residential development, while preserving the façade of the historic former chapel building.

The site is located on the corner of Rochdale Road and Sharp Street – on the edge of Manchester city centre. While the majority of it is currently occupied by the disused chapel, the remaining portion serves as a temporary car park.

The proposals seek to deliver 133 high-quality one and two-bedroom apartments, set within a part-20, part-23 storey tower and incorporate an innovative blend of wellness science and bespoke services.

Facilities would include a gym, spa, social areas, co-working space, concierge-manned reception, secure cycle storage and a communal roof terrace.

In addition to the residential units and wellness amenities, the development would include a ground floor commercial unit, which could be occupied by a local business.

A defining feature of this project is the careful integration of the former Baptist chapel into the design. Although unlisted, the chapel is recognised as a local heritage asset with significant architectural and historical value.

By maintaining the chapel’s presence, Cynergy aims to preserve the cultural fabric of the neighbourhood while delivering a dynamic new addition to the city’s residential offering.

Simon Clarke, commercial director at Cynergy Wellness Residences, said: “This project embodies our vision of creating wellness-focused homes that not only serve the individual needs of our residents but also respect and enhance the fabric of the local community.

“By blending the historic charm of the chapel with modern wellness living, we are delivering a development that reflects the best of both worlds — honouring the past while building for the future. We invite the local community to join us in shaping this vision through the consultation process’.

The consultation on the proposals will be open until Monday, October 21. More information on the plans can be found on the consultation website: www.rochdaleroad-mcr.com

Image credit: CGI of the proposed development, created by architects Hodder and Partners

Oxfam’s new Manchester superstore calls on shoppers to celebrate 30 years of Fairtrade

Events

Helen Greaney

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02/10/2024

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Oxfam’s new Manchester superstore calls on shoppers to celebrate 30 years of Fairtrade

Oxfam’s new Manchester superstore is celebrating 30 years of Fairtrade with a series of shopper events this month.

Food tastings, competitions and café specials are all planned to help mark three decades since the first Fairtrade certified products hit supermarket shelves in the UK.

The new Manchester superstore opened in July with two floors full of preloved clothing, accessories, books, homewares and music, as well a café housed in an Oxfam water tank.

Alison Hutchinson, senior buyer for Oxfam’s ‘Sourced by Oxfam’ range which brings together the best of ethical, sustainable and brand-new items from around the world, said: “At our huge new superstore in Manchester, we are using this milestone anniversary to encourage even more of our wonderful customers to give Fairtrade products a go.

“From coffee and chocolate to giftbags and cards, buying Fairtrade items is about ensuring better prices, safe working conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers.”

There are several Fairtrade events coming up at Oxfam Manchester Superstore. All Oxfam shops will also be running a 20% discount throughout October on selected Fairtrade goods.

October 19: Free coffee at the Water tank Café with entry into a Café Direct Tasting Competition. Shoppers can play “Guess the Origin” of their coffee and correct guesses will be entered into a raffle for a Fairtrade Coffee & Chocolate Hamper.

October 25: Zaytoun Food tasting and talk

October 26: Divine Chocolate tasting and talk

November 12: English tea shop tea tasting

Alison added: “We hope shoppers see this as an opportunity to help support millions of farmers simply by changing the way they shop. Fairtrade sets off a ripple effect that has seen children go to school, reforestation projects started and marginalised communities engage in training initiatives and businesses.”