As Manchester becomes increasingly gentrified and local communities are priced out, a new report on the city’s land use has found a pattern of privatisation and sell-offs – aided and abetted by its Labour council.
Democratic approach to managing public land called for in open letter to Burnham
Campaigners call for Andy Burnham to uphold his election manifesto promise and introduce a Land Commission in Greater Manchester, following the example set by the Liverpool city region.
Are council deals with developers offering best value? Research paper questions development policy and calls for greater transparency
New research paper investigating the sale of public land in Manchester to property developers, questions whether the public are getting value for money in these deals.
Authors highlight lack of available information on development deals and call for a Land Commission. Manchester City Council responds.
The Salford Star, reporting with ‘attitude & love’ for 15 years, is closing
‘I can think of only two local newspapers that consistently hold power to account: the West Highland Free Press and the Salford Star’ said journalist and author George Monbiot. The Salford Star is to close after the elections in May. Judith Suckling talks to Stephen Kingston, the journalism powerhouse behind the Star, on its rise and fall.
Why planning is political
Andrea Sandor explores how community-led developments are putting democracy at the heart of the planning process.
Guest article first published in Red Pepper.
Meteor reporters reflect on a year dominated by Covid-19
Today is the anniversary of a very strange Covid-19 lockdown year. Six Meteor reporters reflect on working through the pandemic and the challenges faced.
Manchester council lose judicial review over Central Retail Park planning decision
A court has found Manchester city council made the wrong decision when it approved plans to turn the former Central Retail Park in Ancoats into a temporary car park.
The council says it will appeal the decision, as Trees Not Cars campaigners call for Sir Richard Leese to ‘retire’.
How a Manchester schoolgirl became a world leading ocean scientist
Jyotika Virmani’s parents, migrated from India to Manchester in 1969. They overcame ‘rampant’ racism to establish themselves in the city and provide their daughter with a safe and secure home.
It was here that Jyotika developed her passion for science which inspired her to become an eminent oceanologist.
The Factory arts venue faces huge funding shortfall
Originally costing £110m, The Factory arts centre is now expected to cost £186m and the project is currently tens of millions short of its target. Manchester City Council say they can’t fill the gap because of the dire financial straits they face due to Covid.
Support available for domestic abuse victims in Salford
Victims of domestic abuse in Salford are being reminded that support is available during the lockdown, with more counselling and staff provided to cope with demand.