Police in Broughton have uncovered a huge cannabis farm following a warrant on the back of intelligence reports from neighbourhood officer 72957.

A successful warrant was actioned at a property in the area this morning, with over 60 mature plants and a substantial setup being found at the scene.

As a result, one male has been arrested for cultivation and abstract of electricity.

Take drugs off your streets and report at https://orlo.uk/E00Fe, police say that they will always act on any information given.

As most are aware, Salford has enjoyed more than it's fair share of talented artists over the years, what with the likes of Geoffrey Key, Harold Riley, Ray Lowry, Broady, Entwistle, Easom, R Mutt and some bloke called Laurence Stephen Lowry to name a few.

All of that talent starts at an early age and Salford has long been an incubator for budding artists and creators.

Our city boasts galleries both large and small but each equally important and individually special and unique. From the world renowned Lowry which stands upon the Quays, to the community led and ran 'Art of Salford' who show their creations on the walls of the Langworthy Cornerstone. Salford is a melting pot for art and creativity.

Step forward Salford CVS based in Eccles who are running a competition aimed at brightening up Eccles Town Centre, by showcasing and celebrating the talents of our younger artists.

‘We Live Here’ is a public art project that it is hoped will transform the blank and dreary walls, windows and public spaces in Eccles Town Centre with a series of site-specific public artworks created by artists and members of the community living, studying and working in Eccles. 

All the artwork created will reference all the different wildlife and people that have connections to Eccles.

Via large scale murals, painting, photography, digital art and site specific installations; global art producers Wild in Art will work with local stakeholders to inject colour and vibrancy into Eccles Town Centre; engendering local pride and a sense of community, whilst offering people the chance to learn new skills and have their work seen by thousands of people.

The project will run from July 21st to September 30th 2023.

Competition details:

There are two age categories:

Age 0 – 11 and Age 12 – 18

Winning designs will be blown up and printed on to huge window-vinyls and displayed in windows and the rest will be shown on a digital screen in the library at Eccles Gateway. The designs must reference the broad themes outlined above.

Submissions can be drawings, paintings, mixed-media artwork, digital art or photography. There can only be one entry per child / young person and they must live or study in Eccles.

Entries should be emailed to welivehere@wildinart.co.uk . Please include the name and age of the young artist and confirm in the email that you have a copy of the original artwork that can be scanned and produced onto a window-vinyl.

The closing date for submission is 5pm on Friday 30th June.

For more information check out Salford CVS.

On Sunday evening, shortly after staff at Salford Watersports Centre had locked up for the evening, twelve or so youths entered into their gated area, whereupon a few managed to crawl under and sit within the wake-park shelter.

During this time, one youth estimated to be between the age of 12-15yrs, decided to mindlessly kick the side Perspex panelling to break it.

Staff say that not content with just breaking the panel, they then picked up the now broken panel and re-smashed it onto the floor, then proceeding to throw the sharp and jagged remains of it into the water.

Unfortunately for them it was a little too late as they failed to notice the CCTV sign and cameras before they quickly scarpered back onto their bikes, whilst attempting to cover their faces.

The centre revealed that it has been forced to remove the wake-park obstacles due to them becoming beyond repair due to years for constant damage by some members of the public.

Additionally, staff spent much of the morning clearing up litter and repairing parts of the pontoon from the previous night, where it looks like the same group and many others, including adults, decided to show a lack of respect for the area and for other people who have to deal with the aftermath.

This latest in a long line of incidents, has been reported to the police and images/footage will be sent to them as well as the council, who will work with schools / youth services to identify the individuals.

If you have a child, know or work with a child who goes to the quays in their free time - please speak with them and also speak to them about the dangers of the quays and open water, the undercurrent can be lethal to even the strongest swimmers and there have been a number of deaths at the Quays in recent years as a result.

The centre is quick to note that not all youngsters are part of the problem but they're seeing far too many engaging in dangerous behaviour, especially around/in the water.

If you are an adult who’s also engaging in this behaviour then think about the example you are setting.

Photos ©: Salford Watersports Centre

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester visited the Violence Reduction Unit’s community-led programme in Salford to hear about the positive impact it is having in preventing young people becoming involved in serious violence and other crimes.

In the 18 months since launch, over 400 young people have been supported through the community-led programme, which focuses on reducing antisocial behaviour, violence and hate crime, improving community cohesion, and providing opportunities for young people.

A community-led approach to violence reduction, means the VRU works closely with communities to understand the strengths, challenges, and needs of the community and determine how local investments will be made.

Several boroughs across the city-region have received funding from the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) as part of its £1.6 million investment in community-led programmes, outlined in Greater Manchester’s Serious Violence Action Plan.

In November 2021, several place-based organisations in Salford were awarded funding from VRU and formed a partnership. Some organisations focused on providing mentoring programmes and positive role models for young people and families at risk or vulnerable to serious youth violence and criminal exploitation.

As a result, sixty-four young people aged 10-18 who were identified as at risk of serious youth violence, have been given a one-to-one mentor and positive role model.

Over 90% of the young people reported improved personal health and wellbeing, minimising risk-taking behaviours, and increased awareness of emotional regulation strategies and anger management techniques, after four months of engagement.

Other organisations focused on increasing the number of youth work activities for young people, projects that build a sense of pride, respect and belonging in the local community, and activities to engage young people on the periphery of organised crime and serious youth violence.

This includes Manchester United Foundation’s Street Reds programme in Ordsall, which delivers regular weekly sessions targeting 8-18-year-olds with sports activities and development opportunities, Oasis Hub Media City’s weekly Friday night youth club which offers arts, cooking, gaming, and issue-based workshops and Salford Community Leisure’s swimming sessions and open access sports offer.

During the visit, Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:

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“We’re committed to doing all we can to stop violence and crime on our streets across Greater Manchester. Just as important as catching those responsible for committing these crimes and getting them off our streets, is working with communities to tackle the issues and to prevent young people from falling into these behaviours.

“We know that working with communities to develop local programmes and initiatives yields the best results, and I would like to thank the organisations and people who have made the programme a success so far.

“I look forward to seeing the continued positive impact of the programme on young people and families in Salford. Programmes like this allow us to educate and support young people away from serious violence and crime and the result is a safer, happier, and more cohesive community for all.”

 

Kate Green, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:

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“The young people I met today have received fantastic support to help them feel safe and been included in programmes that prevent and reduce their risk-taking and offending behaviours.

“The strength of our approach to reducing violence relies heavily on multiple partners, and opportunities like today to bring partners, community members and young people together highlight what can be achieved by working together.

“This approach allows us to reduce violence and criminality in our communities and offers a better future for those at risk. In turn, the wider community benefits as a whole in the long-term.”

 

I was saddened to read the news today of Kevin Peek a familiar figure around for many years and a lifelong Manchester United supporter who travelled the world to support his team.

Kevin was a remarkable character who didn't let his physical disabilities hold him back, he could be seen in his wheelchair in many a pub in Eccles playing pool and loving life, I think he played for a pool team in Eccles.

He ran a computer workshop for a while in the old bank in Patricroft and held classes where he taught computer skills, nothing held him back.

I remember interviewing him when he opened Porky Pigs Cafe in Peel Green which was once a public convenience and he told me straight faced that on the menu was Pee Soup and Brown Windsor Soup I won't go into detail about the Chocolate Log he assured me that he sold...

Many will remember Kevin for his fervent support for Manchester United and was a Season Ticket holder for many years and  both loved and admired by both the club and it's fans.

I would love to hear your memories of this most remarkable man, Eccles has lost a true character and a Gentleman.

I have attended a few Pink Picnics in the past but I am pretty sure that this years Salford pride pink picnic was the most busiest and popular, with long queues to get in.

It was a very safe environment to be in with 100s of people celebrating both the event and their lives with love and laughter in the air.

The performers were all excellent, but in my opinion Black Peppa, the Black drag performer famous for appearing on Ru Paul Drag Race was the best, her performance was very well done and honestly mesmerising to watch.

The day ended in a HUGE crowd, watching the last performance and main headliner Nadine Coyle who was famously in the pop girl group, Girls Aloud, the ideal crowd pleaser.

I had a fabulous time and can't wait for next years Pink Picnic, the organisers deserve a round of applause for the smooth running of the event and a further round of applause for all the people who attended.

The boss of a Salford nursery empire is celebrating after being awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to early years education in the city.

Nicola Fleury, 59, launched the Kidzrus Nursery Group in 2010 and now has a group of five award- winning nurseries across the city of Salford.

Thirteen years ago she began a small business looking after eight children and employing three staff. 

She now has a team in excess of 120 people with ‘an in-depth knowledge of the area as well as qualifications, experience, and skills to meet the specific needs of more than 500 children and families in our care’

The Palace’s citation says:

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“Under Nicola’s leadership each setting has been graded ‘outstanding’ or good with ‘outstanding’ features by Ofsted.  

“She has been accredited with many personal awards including Greater Manchester Business Person of the Year, as an Inspirational Leader, for Outstanding Contribution and as an Employer and is widely respected in the early years sector for her work in raising standards in early years education and as an employer.  

“The group has received accolades for work within the local community and for staff wellbeing.”

 

Nicola is Salford born, bred, and educated; and one accolade that confirms her status in the local community is as a recipient of the 2021-22 Ceremonial Mayor of Salford’s Award for charitable endeavours.

In 2018 she introduced the Kidzrus Family Food Bank in response to the immediate needs of and to support nursery families and the wider community encountering food poverty. 

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“Nicola’s work has impacted on the education and wellbeing of many thousands of children, staff and their families in our care, especially throughout the pandemic,” says the citation.

“During that time, she personally purchased and delivered food parcels, food hampers and picnic boxes to celebrate landmark events as well as bundles of books to promote literacy. 

“At Christmas 2020 the Kidzrus Family Food Bank provided more than 100 Christmas food hampers and more than 500 toys for local children. 

“As a result, Kidzrus Nursery was awarded NMT Community Nursery of the Year in recognition of their efforts.”

 

Nicola told the Local Democracy Reporting Service:

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“I am deeply humbled and extremely proud to be nominated for ‘Services to Early Years Education and to the community in Salford’. 

“Who would have thought from my humble beginnings in Lower Broughton, Salford to receive such an honour is truly remarkable?

“ I only hope it really inspires many others to work hard, have a vision and be totally determined despite the many setbacks. 

“We are very fortunate to have met and cared for so many lovely children and families since setting up the first Kidzrus Nursery in 2010, many of which are in touch today.  

“However, our greatest asset is our team, and we would like to thank every one of them as they have all made a significant contribution.  

“I started my childcare career as a childminder in 2006 with a vision to provide quality childcare and make a difference to children in Salford and to offer the most wonderful opportunities and experiences to all children regardless of their background, culture, and religion.

“Anyone who knows me knows how immensely proud I am to be from Salford, we are a very proud community who always support each other, especially at times of need.  

“I am incredibly proud of all my achievements to date.  However, this is by far my greatest achievement as I have the pleasure of being invited to receive the amazing honour at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle in the coming months.  I am really looking forward to celebrating the spectacular occasion along with my family. ” 

 

Children in care have made their voices heard after marching down to Number 10 Downing Street to demand they are no longer forgotten.

Terry Galloway has long been campaigning for children in care and care leavers not to be discriminated against, and now that message has been to the Prime Minister’s doorstep. The man who spent much of his youth in care homes across Greater Manchester has successfully attained care leavers ‘protected characteristics’ status in 31 councils across the UK, including Wigan, Salford, Trafford, Manchester and Oldham.

Photo ©: Terry Galloway, who lived in the care system across Greater Manchester and later Devon. Credit: Terry Galloway.

Within these councils, the care leavers are now categorised as protected from discrimination, just like anything relating to age, gender assignment, disability, race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief and sex. 

Helping Terry deliver the message to the heart of government were two 13-year-olds from Oldham. Precious, a child in foster care, and Penelope, vice-chair of Oldham Youth Council joined other campaigners on June 14 to deliver a report on protected characteristics to the Children’s Commissioner and Number 10, Downing Street.

After the meeting with Childrens’ Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel De Souza, Penelope, Oldham Youth Council vice-chair said:

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“The experience of attending a meeting with the department of education’s children’s commissioner allowed us to create a safe space to listen to and speak about care experience becoming a protected characteristic. 

“Though not care-experienced myself, it enabled me to vocally champion the voices of those who are and clearly state our encouragement for other youth councils across the country to do the same. Going to 10 Downing Street was an amazing and liberating opportunity to pass this forward on a national level, hopefully the government will listen and understand that it’s imperative for children in care to be irredeemably a proper characteristic.”

 

Photo ©: The campaign group at Downing Street ready to hand in their report on protected characteristics to the Children’s Commissioner and Number 10. Credit: Terry Galloway.

Precious added that speaking to the commissioner was ‘really good’ as it enabled those in power to hear stories about how discrimination has impacted the lives of care leavers. A tour of Parliament for the youngsters was also a big bonus for the group that have taken to politics and democracy at an early age.

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“Their corporate parents (councils) would be so proud of what their children achieved today,” Terry Galloway, lead campaigner, said. “It was hard, it was emotional, but they stood up to care for experienced people everywhere as they spoke about the discrimination and stigma they go through on a daily basis.

“So at the very least people should listen to them.”

 

The campaign to make the care experienced a protected characteristic was a recommendation by Josh MacAlister, Chair of the Independent Review of Children’s Social Care. However in its response to the Independent Review of Children’s Social Care the Government said no.

Despite this setback, 31 councils across the UK have passed motions treating care experience as if it were a protected characteristic. These councils represent 17.97 per cent of the UK population, the campaigners have claimed.

In the coming months, Terry is hoping that more councils will follow suit.

The group are making the following recommendations to the Government:

Government should introduce legislation without delay, so that “Care Experience” becomes a Protected Characteristic in UK Equality law.

Government should commission an information campaign to inform care experienced people about Protected Characteristics, Equitable Equality, and the powers available in relation to section 149 and Equality Impact Assessments that could relate to Care Experienced people if it were a protected characteristic.

Government should consult with care experienced people and those who are associated with us about the difficulties we face in relation to stigma, direct and indirect discrimination and to explore the ramifications of introducing care experience as a Protected Characteristic under the Equality Act 2010.

Government should consult with and listen to the devolved nations of Scotland and Wales about whether protected characteristics for care experienced people should be introduced across the United Kingdom.

Government should commission a destination study identifying where experienced people are, which services they use and their long-term outcomes and experiences.

Stinking raw sewage has flowed into the basement car park of two barely completed apartment blocks, forcing residents to wade through the foul sludge for several weeks.

Residents at Adelphi Wharf blocks 2 and 3 – a stone’s throw from the University of Salford – are fed up with the problem.

Toby Lynch, 37, is one of the residents affected, he said:

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“After a number of weeks this place absolutely stinks,” he said.

“The sewage water has now started to rise up all the woodwork including five fire doors, which I now believe are not compliant should there be a fire.

“I had my two children over the weekend and instead of asking their mum for summer sandals and crocs for them I had to ask for their wellies to be packed so we could wade through the water upon entering and exiting the car.”

Toby has lived in the Adelphi for 18 months and pays £1,200 a month for his two-bedroom apartment.

Another resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “The car park stinks – it’s vile – and it’s been like that for ages. It’s crazy that in this day and age this can be allowed to happen.”

 

When the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) visited the block we saw human faeces on the car park, and there was a strong smell of raw sewage. The blocks are managed by Xenia Estates.

A spokesperson said:

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“We are aware of a leak within the basement of Adelphi Wharf blocks 2 & 3. 

“On June 5, Xenia Estates received reports of a leak located in the car park, we immediately appointed a plumber to locate the source of the leak and it was discovered that no pipes were damaged or leaking at this time. 

“On June 7, the initial investigation indicated that the manholes were backing up, therefore a drain specialist team were required who were appointed the same day.”

 

They said that specialist contractors were on site for a further two days to carry out investigations.

They continued:

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“On June 9, specifically, it was discovered that pumps one and two were found not to be functioning as expected, thus all manholes were lifted to trace back to the pump chamber and clear all blockages.

“It was subsequently discovered that an electrical contractor was required to investigate potential issues in the plant room.

“On Tuesday June 13, the electrical contractor appointed by Xenia Estates located a problem and the panel was successfully rewired. However, the problem persisted.

“A dedicated contractor with expertise in plumbing electricals attended the site on Wednesday June 14 and has successfully put a temporary measure in place until a more permanent solution can be found. 

“Although the measure currently in place is temporary, it does mean that the function is now working as expected. A Wet Vac will be on site today (Thursday June 15), to commence clean up in the car park.

“Xenia Estates would like to stress that we have had various contractors attending the site daily to resolve the recent issue and that it has been of the utmost priority.

“We acknowledge the resolution for this leak has taken longer than anticipated. This is due to the complex nature of this issue and requiring multi-disciplined contractors to attend.”

 

Coun Mike McCusker, lead member for planning, transport and sustainable development at Salford Council, said:

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“We have not received any reports of sewage in the car park from residents but I’m appalled to hear this and we will be investigating how this has happened. 

“If this is due to faulty drainage then we will require the management company to take prompt action to repair it.” 

 

A very special guest visited The Lowry, Salford ahead of the award-winning Life of Pi’s forthcoming Christmas season.

‘Richard Parker’ a life-size puppeteered Bengali Tiger that features in the show was in town for a special showcase event for the show, which will be running at The Lowry from Tuesday 5 December 2023 to Saturday 6 January 2024.

Also at The Lowry was playwright Lolita Chakrabarti, who adapted Yann Martel’s acclaimed novel for the stage, and Puppet & Movement Director Finn Caldwell.

The visit came in the week Life of Pi’s Broadway production won 3 prizes at The Tony Awards in New York.

Life of Pi is Beginning its first-ever tour of the UK and Ireland this August 2023, before coming to The Lowry, Salford from 5th December 2023 to 6th January 2024, Divesh Subaskaran is confirmed to make his professional debut in the central role of Pi.

He is joined by Antony Antunes, who performs as Tiger Hind / Cook / Father Martin, Adwitha Arumugam as Pi Alternate, Bhawna Bhawsar as Lulu Chen/Mrs Biology Kumar, Ralph Birtwell as Mamaji/ Admiral Balbir Singh, Kriss Dosanjh as Father, Sebastian Goffin as Tiger Head, Akash Heer as Tiger Head,  Romina Hytten as Tiger Heart and Hind,  Katie Kennedy-Rose as Tiger Heart and Hind, Aizah Khan as Tiger Heart and Hind, Chand Martinez as Pandit-ji,  Keshini Misha as Rani, Goldy Notay as Amma, Sharita Oomeer as Lulu Chen / Mrs Biology Kumar, Kate Rowsell as Tiger Heart and Hind, Lilian Tsang as Mrs Okamoto/Zaida Khan/Ships Captain, Peter Twose and Tiger Head/Voice of Richard Parker/Cook/Father Martin. 

‘IT WILL MAKE YOU BELIEVE IN THEATRE. A TRIUMPH.’ - SUNDAY TIMES

Life of Pi, which concluded its West End run on 15th January 2023, first opened to critical acclaim at the Crucible theatre in Sheffield in 2019. International commitments for the show include its North American Premiere at the American Repertory Theater at Harvard University where it ran from 4th December 2022 to 29th January 2023, followed by its Broadway premiere at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theater where it opened on 9th March 2024. A European tour will follow the tour of the UK and Ireland and there are plans underway for a tour of Australia and Asia.

Life of Pi won five Olivier Awards in April 2022. As well as Best New Play, and Best Actor for Hiran Abeysekera (the original Pi); in an historic first for the Olivier Awards - the seven performers who puppeteer the Tiger ‘Richard Parker’ were collectively awarded Best Actor in a Supporting Role. The production also picked up awards for set (Tim Hatley, Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell), and lighting design (Tim Lutkin and Andrzej Goulding).

Opening to celebratory reviews on Broadway in March the production this week won Tony Awards in the following categories: Best Scenic Design, Best Lighting Design and Best Sound Design.

‘THE PUPPETRY IS OUT OF THIS WORLD’ - DAILY MAIL

The production is directed by Max Webster, Set and Costume Designer is Tim Hatley, the Puppet Designers are Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell, the Puppet and Movement Director is Finn Caldwell, the Video Designer is Andrzej Goulding, the Lighting Designer is Tim Lutkin, the Sound Designer is Carolyn Downing, the Composer is Andrew T Mackay, Dramaturgy is by Jack Bradley, the Casting Director is Polly Jerrold, the Associate Director is Leigh Toney, the Associate Puppetry and Movement Director is Scarlet Wilderink, the Associate Set Designer is Ross Edwards, the Associate Puppet Designer is Caroline Bowman,  the Costume Supervisor is Sabrina Cuniberto and the Props Supervisor is Ryan O’Conner.  

Based on one of the best-loved works of fiction – winner of the Man Booker Prize, selling over fifteen million copies worldwide – Life of Pi is a breath-taking new theatrical adaptation of an epic journey of endurance and hope.

After a cargo ship sinks in the middle of the vast Pacific Ocean, there are five survivors stranded on a single lifeboat – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, a sixteen-year-old boy, and a 450-pound Royal Bengal tiger. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive?

Award-winning writer Yann Martel’s works include The Facts Behind the Helsinki Roccamatios (1993), Self (1996), We Ate the Children Last (2004), Beatrice and Virgil (2010) – a New York Times Bestseller and a Financial Times Best Book, 101 Letters to a Prime Minister (2012) – a collection of letters to the prime minister of Canada; and The High Mountains of Portugal (2016).  

‘EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS PRODUCTION IS AMAZING.’ - OBSERVER

Life of Pi is produced by Simon Friend in association with Playing Field and Tulchin/Bartner.

The RSPCA have launched an urgent appeal and have launched a search for a litter of puppies after their mum was abandoned along with another female dog outside animal hospital on Eccles New Road.

CCTV footage shows a man tying the dogs to a bicycle stand outside the charity's building on Eccles New Road M5 5NN at about 3pm on Thursday May 29th before walking away. The dogs were brought inside by concerned staff after it became clear that the man wasn’t coming back.

 

Now, an appeal for anyone who recognises him to get in touch has been made by the RSPCA.

Described by the RSPCA as sweet-natured and friendly, both dogs were examined by one of the hospital’s vets. The white and tan wired-haired lurcher, who is thought to be around five years old, had milk coming from her teats and blood visible around the vulva area - both of which indicate that she had recently given birth and was nursing puppies.

Further examination revealed she had an old fracture on her back left leg, between her paw and hock, which had healed over.

The tan-coloured dog had old scarring on her body and face and was microchipped to an address in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Her chip revealed she is called Xena and is six. Enquiries are being made by the RSPCA to establish how she came to be in the Salford area.

RSPCA inspector Beth Fazackerley, who is investigating the incident, said:

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“We’re extremely concerned that there’s a litter of puppies out there who will have been separated from their mum at a very early age. We don’t know whether they’re receiving the appropriate care they need at this vitally important time, if they’re ill or indeed what may have happened to them.

"It’s also very distressing for mum to be away from her pups, who may not be physically or mentally strong enough to cope on their own without her.

“Despite what’s happened to them, both dogs have got lovely temperaments. They are very gentle and calm and we’ll look to place them with loving new owners in due course. We’re very keen to hear from anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV footage and we’d urge them to get in touch with us.”

 

The lurchers are currently being looked after on behalf of the RSPCA at a private kennel and are doing well. People with information can contact the RSPCA appeal line, in confidence, on 0300 123 8018.

Plans for the Port of Salford – a hugh distribution zone forming part of the Atlantic Gateway and part of the redevelopment strategy for the North West – have been approved.

The scheme centering on the corridor between Greater Manchester and Merseyside from property giant Peel L&P dates back to 2009 when permission for Port Salford, including 154,500 square metres of warehousing, highways, a new rail link and a wharf for cargo shipping was first given the green light.

However, the company has amended the proposals with the updated plan also including extending a grass runway at City Airport [formerly Barton Aerodrome] into small area of green belt.

The scheme involves the construction of two berths on the Manchester Ship Canal, a 17 hectare ‘multi-modal’ terminal, parking for 540 cars and 530 lorries alongside a new junction onto the A57.

Salteye Brook will also be rerouted and strengthening works will be carried to the ship cannal. 

Meanwhile, a new north-south branch line will connect Port Salford to the Manchester-Liverpool railway line, although the eastern one of two chords in the original scheme has been dropped. A bridge will take the rail line across the A57 Liverpool Road.

Construction of the rail link is due to begin soon.

Councillors have also agreed to the Western Gateway Infrastructure Scheme which includes the construction of a new link road between the A57 Liverpool Road and Trafford Way and junction 10 of the M60 – enabling traffic to bypass Peel Green and providing a new crossing over the Ship Canal east of the M60 Barton Bridge.

In order to enable the amendments to the rail link, the alignment of the ‘Eccles Definitive Footpath 28’ will be altered to follow the easter boundary of the airport.

The plans were approved without comment from councillors and no objections have been raised against the scheme.

A resident has won a battle to prevent the house next door to him becoming a HMO after telling a planning panel he had suffered ‘eight-and-a-half years of hell’ from residents of one already in his street. 

Alan Phillips claimed he has already suffered verbal abuse from people smoking cannabis and making noise on his street. 

Councillors on Salford’s planning and transportation regulatory panel rejected the bid to turn the two-bed home on Dronfield Road into a house of multiple occupation (HMO) for three people after hearing objections from Mr Phillips and Claremont ward councillor Michael Previtt.

Mr Phillips told the panel about the horrific experience residents had endured from an existing HMO next to his home. If the application from Scarlett Womersley had been approved Mr Phillips’ home would have been next to two HMOs.

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“We have been kept awake from 12 midnight until 4am having to listen to the noise from the residents,” he said. “It’s not right that we should have yet another one nextdoor. It’s not acceptable.

“They don’t look after their property, they don’t keep it clean, they won’t talk to you. If you put more people in the other house next-door there will be havoc.”

 

He went on:

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“Claremont is a nice area to live in, but there are that many people renting there now, paying £400 to £500 to live in a box it’s dragging the area down. 

“People come here a look a the houses and say ‘how do you put up with all this noise’.

“We’ve had nights when they’ve been smoking cannabis and when you knock on the door, all you get is abuse. I think it’s a bit out of order. There’s partying, shouting and screaming, and you can hear it through the walls.

“We go to bed at night to get to sleep, not hear them causing chaos.”

 

Coun Previtt, who is not on the panel but was addressing the meeting as ward councillor said that the dimensions of the rooms did not meet Salford city council’s standards.

However, he was contradicted by planning officers sitting on the panel, who said the authority’s housing licensing team deemed it did meet the required standards. 

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“If you allow this application it will open the floodgates [to other similar applications],” said Coun Previtt.

Responding, Coun Mike McCusker said:

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“There a growing number of HMOs across the city, driven by government policy around housing benefit. 

“I agree that there is an issue about the proximity of HMOs to neighbouring properties.”

 

A move to refuse the application by Coun Bob Clarke on the grounds of the proximity to neighbouring properties was won by four votes to two.

Sir Michael Lyons, Chair of The English Cities Fund (ECF) and Paul Dennett, the City Mayor of Salford, yesterday (14^th June 2023) paid a visit to Eden, the £36 million, 115,000 sq. ft 12-storey office building in Salford, being developed by The English Cities Fund (ECF), to celebrate the living wall which adorns it, and which will be Europe’s largest, being close to completion.

As part of the visit, Sir Michael, who has been the Chair of ECF since 2002, and the City Mayor were given a tour which included an introduction to the 32 species of plants that have been selected for the wall. Thyme is amongst the 350,000 plants growing on Eden which may be scientific in intent but also carries apt symbolism given the plant’s contribution to improving air quality with its anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Associated with purification, courage, and strength, Thyme, is known as a protective herb, providing defence against negative energy and influences.

Ella Woodward, development manager at ECF, said:

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“Eden has been designed for communities and companies that place sustainability at their hearts. As a business, we’re committed to building a brighter, greener, future for the next generation. This place-changing building has been designed to push the envelope in terms of sustainable regeneration and highlight what can be achieved when like-minded partners work together to deliver something truly special for the benefit of everyone.”

Commenting, Paul Dennett, City Mayor of Salford said:

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“Eden has already become an icon for our city; an embodiment of creative strength and statement of positivity in a city with a proud heritage of innovation. More than that though, it symbolises everything we need to embrace going forward in terms of community and sustainability. We all need to do our bit to look after each other and the world around us.

“Eden promises not only to look after those in and around it, but also serve as an example of how buildings can work with and for the environment when conceived and constructed with care.”

 

Also in attendance at the ceremony was Graeme Orchison, partner and location head for TLT in Manchester, which has already signed a lease for space in the building.

He said:

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“Our Manchester team is very much looking forward to its move to Eden – a move which cements our commitment to the region whilst also representing our commitment to sustainability, and a people-first culture where employees have the space and support to produce their best work. Our values are very much reflected in Eden’s ground-breaking approach that will lead the way for the future workplaces that are both better for our people and the planet.”

Paul Sykes, Regional Director at Bowmer + Kirkland which was contracted to construct Eden, added:

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“This is a momentous few weeks in the construction of Eden as we are now watching the building come to life. Our entire team has been proud to work on this unique project that is bringing biodiversity to the centre of Manchester and highlighting ways in which we can build healthier, more environmentally conscious workspaces in our city centres.

“It’s not very often that we get to build something that will continue to grow in front of our eyes and provide a home not only for the people working in the building but also a habitat for a diverse range of creatures.”

 

The symbolism of other plants on the wall includes Hypericum perforatum (St John’s-Wort), which is believed to have great protective powers, Fragaria ananassa (strawberry plants) which have always connoted purity, passion and healing, and Hyacinthoides non-scripta (bluebells) said to represent constancy, humility, and gratitude.

Planting of the wall started in February with around two plants put in place every minute since. By the end of July, the wall be fully planted and cover 43,000 sq ft of the building – for the Wimbledon fans out there, that’s equivalent to approximately 12.5 championship-sized tennis courts! It also happens to be the same size as the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern in London.

How does the living wall benefit the local environment?

Eden’s façade has been designed to remove air pollutants including carbon, reduce urban temperatures offering thermal benefits to occupiers, and deliver a 174% net gain in the biodiversity of the area.

Each species of plant has been specially selected for its biodiversity, being rich in pollinators or the ability to mitigate air pollution. Alongside the English Thymus (Thyme Vulgaris) which is good for air quality, other plant species amongst those in the living wall include Hypericum Hidcote (St John’s Wort) which provides nectar and berries for birds, and Hyacinthoides non-scripta (Bluebell) which is an early source of nectar.

Rainwater will be harvested and stored at the roof for use within the living wall’s irrigation system, with a mains water back up option should there be a shortage of rainfall.

What are the benefits for those working in the building?

The building also has a range of health benefits, with Eden designed to enhance occupier health, wellbeing, productivity, and will embrace the WELL Building Standard principles, which aim to improve health and human experience through design.  Once inside, those working from Eden will also benefit from wellness spaces for yoga and quiet contemplation, while the roof terrace will provide panoramic city views perfect for socialising with others in the building.

For those who wish to cycle to work, there is a ground-floor cycle hub with 156 bike spaces and two drying rooms for damp clothes.

What other sustainable features does Eden contain?

Once complete, Eden will be enabled to run solely on 100% renewable electricity and has been designed using the UK Green Building Council’s 2030-2035 operational energy targets. Designed by Make Architects, Eden is also a LETI (London Energy Transformation Initiative) pioneer project (a group of projects that seek to achieve targets in line with LETI's Climate Emergency Design Guide).

On Tuesday 18 April 2023, Greater Manchester Police were called to reports of a burglary at an apartment complex at Middlewood Street, Salford.

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

Police have released a cctv image of two men they would like to speak to as it’s believed they could assist with enquiries.

Anyone with information that may help identify those pictured are asked to contact Swinton Neighbourhood Crime Team on 0161 856 5272 quoting log 2442 of 18/4/23.

Information can be passed on anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Yet again, here at Salford Community Media we are rattling our 'charidee' begging bowls and asking you wonderful people for your help with our latest venture to help the most in need people of Salford and district.

We are now a Community Interest Company (CIC) which means we can apply for community grants, lottery funding etc... so we can hopefully rent a business premises and get the wider community involved in what we do... but I digress.

Last Christmas we were so impressed with the epic Councillor Sammie Bellamy's incredible feat of feeding 500 pensioners from all over Salford with her, "Five Days of Christmas" project that saw deserving people fed at the Gateways throughout Salford, it actually brought a tear to young Carl's eye, although he say's it was a fly (In December), behind his rough gruff exterior, he actually has a heart. although medical science can not confirm this.

As well as our regular contributions to local foodbanks, we have come up with what I think is a cunning plan to feed 100 deserving pensioners at a party to be held in November.

We are looking at late November at Eccles Gateway, we must stress that it is not a Christmas party but I hasten to add, a slap up, 'scrantastic' meal, with live music, presents and a raffle.

The plan is to have a massive big pan of Hot Pot enough to give everybody there a portion, through the kindness of Jennie Smith from Loaves and Fishes who we can't thank enough.

Our good pal, David Hill from Leaf Bean Pod Cafe home of the world famous pies has agreed to make baking trays of different varieties of pies, Eccles, Salford, Salford Reds, Meat and Potato etc to be served piping hot in Bain Maries plus portions of red cabbage and mushy peas! And yes, there will be pudding thrown in also.

We are in talks with various lovely folks at Salford Council and the fragrant Sharmina August has been a huge help in getting us the big room in the Gateway free of charge, we have even engaged the services of "Mr Showbiz" Tony Nicholls to tickle the ivories and have the audience singing a long... what could possibly go wrong?

I am more than delighted to say that three incredibly kind people have already contacted us, lets call them, Dave from Salford who drinks in Wetherspoons and Paul from Salford a local businessman who have both pledged a whopping £100 each, and Mike from Mobile Zone has pledged £50... a round of applause please.

As we have mentioned before, our good friend and premier genealogist Glenn Kennedy is raffling off two amazing ancestry packages for those who want their family history tracing and he is also helping fund raise further by selling Eccles Mugs (NO! Not Carl and I), with all profits going towards the Winter Warmer shindig.

Far be it from me to ask local businesses to chip in or any filthy rich people to ease their conscious and wallet but any donations will be gratefully received as we want to make this a party to remember.

So if you can help in any way with say, helping out on the day serving up food, donating a raffle prize, tins of biscuits, chocolates etc please don't hesitate to get in touch with us newsdesk@salford.media

Many thanks to all the people who have so far given us, help, advice, free services, equipment etc and it shows that Salford people truly are the best in the World... we love you!

The first Summer Solstice family event to be held at Cleavley Community Forest Garden will be on Wednesday 21st June.

It's totally free and  family friendly activities start at 6pm.

Join us as we explore some of the customs around the longest day of the year across Europe including yoga and storytelling, nature crafts and hot chocolate around the fire, finishing around 8pm.

This is a family event, with activities for everyone to enjoy.

This is also a FREE community event hosted by Incredible Education CIC at Cleavley Community Forest Garden

It's free but places are limited.

PLEASE NOTE: Every child under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

You can book your place using this link:

https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?appointmentType=48414652&owner=24746906

Irlam man Neil Williamson was a ‘Man on a Mission’ and last night completed a gruelling, endurance challenge that he failed to finish last year after sustaining
an injury.

Neil age 43, had ‘Unfinished business’ – As he will once again attempted to cycle
‘solo’ more than 2,000 miles in just three weeks, totally alone and without and back-
up or support.

Neil cycled from Lisbon in Portugal all the way back to his hometown of Irlam and
Cadishead, hoping to raise as much money as possible for two charities that are
both very close to his heart and personal to him.
He is  is a former Irlam Primary School and Irlam High School student and for many
years was a keen local footballer of some note playing for the likes of Irlam Mitchell
Shackleton’s, the Catholic Club and Tiger Moth FC’s.

He said,

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“I am raising funds to support the fantastic and valuable work that St. Anns
Hospice do. My mum Jo passed away in 2017, she was looked after at home by their
‘Hospice at Home Service’, they did an incredible job looking after and caring for
mum during her final months. I also received counselling from St. Anns Hospice after
mum passed.”

Neil is also raising funds for the local Jamie Horrocks Trust (JHT) that was set up in
memory of Irlam Firefighter and popular local footballer Jamie Horrocks who sadly
passed away.

He added,

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“Jamie was a friend and teammate. The work that the JHT do in his
memory is amazing. They have made such a difference raising the awareness
understanding and support around the issues of mental health and wellbeing.”
The support and counselling that Neil received from St. Anns Hospice was life
changing. He added, “The counselling I received from Hazel at St. Anns was totally
life transforming. I was in a very dark place after mum passed. She enabled me to
discover what was important to me and what made me happy. It also prompted me
to have a change of career and I have now finished my training and studying to
become a Podiatrist. Sadly, Hazel passed away 2021 and this ride is in her memory
as well”.

Neil took his final exams just a week before jetting off to Portugal to take on his
mammoth challenge. He added, “It has been hard studying, doing work placements
and of course training on the bicycle five days a week for the challenge. But I am
doing it for the two charities that mean an awful lot to me, and I am determined to
succeed this time around.” But that work also paid off as on his trek Neil was notified
that he had passed with a ‘first’.

Neil attempted the same challenge last year but after just 450 miles on the road,
suffered an accident and broke his wrist and was unable to carry on. He has been in
continuous training for many months and had to carry with him on his bicycle around
15kg of kit including four spare inner tubes, a spare tyre, puncture kits, bike locks,
sleeping bag in case he gets caught at night on the roads between planned stops, a
change of clothing, food and almost constantly carrying two litres of water.

Some days I rode over 150 miles and others around maybe less than a hundred or
so. It has been worked out that on the route I took, I will have climbed the equivalent
distance of going up Mount Everest three times during the challenge!”

Neil finally finished his epic trek at 6.30pm last night when he crossed the finishing
line at Irlam Steel Club on Liverpool Road, where a large group of family, friends and
acquaintances were there to cheer him over that line.

On his final day of the challenge, Neil cycled to St. Anns Hospice in Little Hulton
where members of staff gave him a guard of honour. Before cycling on the Culcheth
Cycles in CLulcheth to thank them for all their work on getting is trusty cycle ready.
Neil amazingly completed the entire 2,100 miles without a single puncture or
mechanical issues.

From there it was the home straight and to the Steel Club for a warm welcome and a
cold beer, a fantastic unaided and supported achievement.

Neil added,

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“I would like to thank everyone and anyone that has or would like to
sponsor or support me on completing this epic challenge, including local companies
and individuals who have financially supported the costs of the ride or given me their
time: my cycling coach Adam Darby of Revolution Cycle Coaching; Culcheth Cycles
for getting my bike ready for the road; Irlam Rotary Club, Bill, Gill and Jim from the
Irlam Rotary Club for their very generous personal support; Steven Payne at SP
&Co; Chris Hilton of CH Nutrition, Training, Injury Therapy and Rehabilitation;
Matthew Thorpe at 12 Gauge MMA; Joe Bailey; Simon Roper; Barrie Holmes
Personal Training and Nutritional Advice; Benchmark Building Supplies; Dave Roddy
of Vac-Away; Chris Hesford of Tusk Design Studio; Nick Parker of Parker Sports
Services; and Co-Active ICT. I had unfinished business with this challenge and was
determined more than ever to get over the finishing line back in Irlam!”

You can still sponsor Neil on his challenge and support two fantastic charities by
donating at his ‘Just Giving Page’ at https://www.justgiving.com/page/neil-williamson-
2023

13th July at 19:30pm, Salford Arts Theatre, Greater Manchester

Following on from two nights at VAULT festival 2023, up and coming physical comic,
writer and actor David Hoskin come to the Greater Manchester Fringe to debut his oneof-a-kind show that combines mime, visual vernacular and sound design.

A hysterical, surreal tale of one man's attempt to travel the world. Performing as a cast
of over twenty characters and collected from a wealth of stories obtained from Hoskin's
global travels - this is a show for all those who have tried to fit in abroad. Merging
mime, sound design and slapstick comedy - this is a soulful spectacle to laugh and fall in
love with.

About David:

David is a physical performer, writer, actor, improvisor, theatre maker and voice
artist. David makes interdisciplinary work combining theatre, improvisation and the
visual arts.

With a background in music and fine art, developed whilst at Anglia Ruskin (Cambridge)
and the Royal College of Art (London), he also studied at acclaimed theatre and clown
school Ecole Philippe Gaulier. He recently completed the Soho Theatre Comedy Labs +
course.

David has collaborated and performed alongside renowned clown Jon Davidson and
award winning comic Elf Lyons. He has performed for and developed creative projects
with numerous renowned immersive theatre companies such as Gamepath, Buckbuck
Games, Funicular Productions and Bearded Kitten. He started his own theatre
company Very Horrible Play in 2023.

Alongside theatre David is also a voice artist and has worked for clients such as Hasbro,
BMW and director Neil Marshall.

What the press have said about David

‘Lyons is supported by the phenomenal… David Hoskin ’ - ★★★★★

Broadwayworld - formidable physical comedy skills are a theatrical treat; spot-on impressions, superb sound design & witty visual gags whisk us all away on an upbeat, dynamic adventure - ★★★★

Fringebiscuit - ‘An extensive cast of characters… played with impressive versatility’ - ★★★★

Britishtheatre.com - wonderful job at playing various characters - Honeysuckle

For tickets visit: https://www.salfordartstheatre.com/Whats-on
13/07/23 Kemsing Walk, Tunbridge Sq, Liverpool St, Salford, M5 4BS

Residents in Irlam & Cadishead bore witness to a stranger than usual sight as a 'Tractor Funeral' passed along Liverpool Road this afternoon (1.15pm Wednesday), which we believe was enroute to Peel Green for ceremony.

The Funeral left from CO-OP (Bert Johnsons) on Liverpool Road in Cadishead and local journalist/photographer Bill McLaughlin of Local Mag, was on hand with his trusty camera to capture it.

The Coffin rode on the back of a vintage tractor and was escorted by around eight other vintage tractors.

Apparently the deceased was a bit of a vintage tractor fan!!!.

Well done to his family and friends for putting together such an absolutely amazing send off.