The Planning and Transportation Regulatory Panel gave proposals the green light on Thursday 21st September. 

The historic mansion will now be restored and will accommodate the council's registry services as well as community space including a mixed use café bar and wedding venue and function room. 

Disabled access ramps will be installed along with a lift, an external enclosed staircase, and disabled access ramps, making Buile Hill Mansion accessible for all residents and our communities in Salford.

The Buile Hill depot outbuildings, with the exception of the derelict greenhouse, will be demolished and a new car park created, with landscaping.

The Council has agreed that the group campaigning for the refurbishment of the greenhouse will be given the opportunity to formally present its business case for the restoration to the Council within the next 3 months. If successful they will be given more time to develop and deliver the project.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

"I made a commitment to the city, our residents and communities at the last mayoral election to bring Buile Hill Mansion back into community use and it is fantastic news that the planning panel has now approved our ambitious and exciting plans for this much loved historic asset in the heart of our city and in the jewel in the crown that is the city's central park.

"This historic building will now house the city's Registry Office so it is a fitting place for people to register births, marriages and deaths and provide a unique venue for weddings, civil partnerships, renewing vows and baby naming and citizenship ceremonies and associated celebrations.

"I'm looking forward to the doors being formally opened once works have completed after a 12 months construction and restoration period.  This significant investment to restore the historic mansion building will also hopefully act as a catalyst for future investment into Buile Hill Park."

A public consultation on the plans took place in December 2021. All proposals has been supported by the work of the Buile Hill Mansion Association, which was formed in 2018 to support re-opening the Mansion.

Grant Prescott from Butress said: 

"This is great news. We cannot wait to start work on site and return Buile Hill Mansion back into use so that all people will be able to enjoy this wonderful building for many more years.  For architects, it's an interesting building to work on as it was originally designed by architect Charles Barry who was renowned for the designs of the Palace of Westminster and Manchester Art Gallery. We also understand the importance of the mansion and the surrounding park to the people of Salford and bringing it back into use will be particularly rewarding."

See more photos: https://salford.media/gallery/category/34-buile-hill-seedley-park/

Buile Hill Mansion is set in the grounds of Buile Hill Park, a Grade II listed public park.

The mansion was built between 1825 and 1827 for Thomas Potter, the first elected Mayor of Manchester.

The original building was designed by distinguished architect Sir Charles Barry, who later built Manchester Art Gallery, rebuilt the Houses of Parliament and re-modelled Trafalgar Square as well as many country houses and churches across the country.

Police were called to Salford Quays at around 7:30pm on Friday 22 September 2023.

When officers arrived at the scene it was established that a man, the victim in his 30s, had been assaulted by a group of males with metal poles causing serious but thankfully not life-threatening injuries.

A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault and remains in custody for questioning at this time.

Detective Sergeant James Walsh of GMP's Salford CID branch, said:

"This is an attack that has caused significant injuries to the victim and, after launching an investigation and conducting enquiries over the weekend, we are now in a position to appeal for any witnesses that may have seen this assault, as it happened in a busy part of Salford Quays on Friday evening.

"We have arrested a person in connection with this, but we are keen to speak to people to understand further what happened as well as gain access to any additional evidential opportunities through CCTV, dashcam footage or mobile recordings to assist with our enquiries which are ongoing at this stage.

"If anyone has any information that may help with the investigation, they are asked to call 0161 856 5345 or 101 quoting incident number 3268 of 22/09/2023."

Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The weekend is upon us (we apparently invented it in Salford) and it is time for a break from the daily grind, we have listed just a few of the events going around Salford this weekend.

FRIDAY

SALFORD RED DEVILS VS CATALANS DRAGONS (BETFRED SUPER LEAGUE ROUND 27)

With everything at stake, Salford Red Devils battle the title-chasing Catalans Dragons on home turf at the Salford Stadium this evening (Friday 22nd September).

A win tonight, coupled with a Warrington Wolves loss, would confirm playoff rugby league for the second consecutive season. Anything else would bring their 2023 campaign to a close.

Everything is to play for, kick off at 20:00 (8PM) at the Salford Stadium.

Rock Hard Matt

Hard Rockin Matt Jones will be performing a the Hardrock Cafe at the printworks on Saturday evening.

SATURDAY

The Exhibitionists

The Annual Exhibition of Salford Art Club opens at on Saturday 21 September. There is a free launch event taking place between 1-3pm during which people can meet the artists. Tickets to the opening event must be booked in advance. The Salford Art Club exhibition is free and runs during opening hours.

The exhibition is a celebration of the group’s talents, which range from beginner to very accomplished. Members of Salford Art Club including Carol Parkes and Geoffrey Key will present their latest work in a variety of media and cover a range of subject matter.

Within every Salford Art Club Exhibition there are artists showing their work for the first time. There are others whose work is in the gallery’s permanent collection. In art there is no rule that says that a trained artist is better than a self-taught artist. What counts is that the artist says something different.

At this exhibition there will be artists who see Salford with a unique eye; they will spot something that others overlook. That is why Salford’s Art Club exhibitions are so valuable and visitors are encouraged to come along and take a look at art produced by local people.

The exhibition will have original works for sale, plus the By Hand shop will be open with refreshments throughout the afternoon.

Salford Art Club meet regularly at Salford Museum and Art Gallery and new members are always welcome of all abilities.

The exhibition runs from 21 September to 3 December.

On Your Bike

Come along to Clifton Community Centre between 2pm and 4pm and join in the fun of their Eco Festival.

Bike safety checks are available along with fair trade tea and coffee as well as juice and biscuits.

You can also make a bug hotel.

Stars Inn Their Eyes

Vikki and John as Formula2 play hits from the 1950’s right up to the present day.

A huge variety of artists and genres, with hit after hit, a bit like hitting the “shuffle” button on your favourite song list.

Vikki is the lead singer with John on guitar and backing vocals – playing to custom built backing tracks providing a full audio experience. Always great music and a great performance.

Have sold out for the last 2 years so book early!

From 20:00 to 23:59 at the Star Inn, 2 Back Hope Street, Salford
 

SUNDAY

Eyes on The Pies

The monthly craft fair at Elm Bank Masonic Hall in Eccles returns on Sunday.

The event takes place on the last Sunday of every month.

Handmade Crafts, Gifts, Food, Refreshments.

The great Pie Man himself, Dave Hill will be there selling his ever popular delicious Eccles and Salford pies and they are proper pies too, not that muck you buy from the super market freezers.

With FREE entry, FREE parking and wheelchair accessible.

Scout & About

2nd Irlam Scout Group are holding a Family Fun Day at their scout hut on Fiddlers Lane in Irlam this Sunday.

This is to remember the great Jim Mather who sadly passed away.

The event will end with the unveiling the new 2nd Irlam Scout Hut Sign.

On the day there will be lots going on including bouncy castles, campfire circle, tents, food and so much more. You will also be able to see their recently refurbished kitchen in the hut!!

If you would like to include an event for next weeks 'Something For The Weekend', please get in touch via newsdesk@salford.media. Listing is FREE.

A stellar new show based on the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler

Soar into space this October half-term with this joyful tale of star-crossed aliens – also seen in the BBC TV animation on Christmas day!

‘The Smeds and The Smoos’ tells the story of two rival groups of aliens living on a far-off planet: the Smeds (who are red) and the Smoos (who are blue). The two groups mistrust each other, and the children are told to never play with one another. So, when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back?

After years in which so many people (young and old) have felt isolated and cut off, and during which society seems to have become ever more fractured, Tall Stories is proud of this production that focuses on unity and understanding.

Directed by Tall Stories’ co-founder, Toby Mitchell. The cast will include, Felicia Akin-Tayo, Tom Capper, Robert Penny, Andrea Sadler and understudy Grace Liston. 

Julia Donaldson said: “I loved the show – the brilliantly alien set and lighting, the energetic acting and the wonderful puppets. My favourite was the Lurgle!”

Axel Scheffler said: “It was lovely to find out a lot more about the life of the Smeds and the Smoos and all the other life forms on their far away planets in this delightful play by the Tall Stories team. Space travel for the whole family – at its best!”

This production has music, laughs, puppetry and interplanetary adventures for everyone aged 3 and up! ‘The Smeds and The Smoos’ is at The Lowry, Salford from 24th - 29th October 2023.

For more information and tickets visit https://thelowry.com.

A pupil from St Mary's CE Primary School in Sale has been selected from hundreds of entries as the winner of The Lowry’s annual Copley Prize. 10-year-old Sophia Kidane was welcomed to The Lowry on Wednesday 20th September with her proud family and Art Teacher to see her painting hung in the LS Lowry Galleries, where it will remain on display for the next year, alongside the famous work it was inspired by.

Joy Ball, Sophia’s Art Teacher said: “The whole school community are extremely proud of Sophia and her achievement in winning the Copley Prize. It is well deserved for someone who has shown great attitude and creativity in her work and is an inspiration to those around her.”

Sophia’s work was chosen as this year’s overall winner by Alison and Noel Copley, who founded the competition as an exciting way to encourage primary-aged children to develop their creativity and artistic ability. The prize invites children to recreate their own modern-day versions of LS Lowry’s work, in ways that represent the world that they live in, and often capturing images of the environment around them, just as Lowry did.

Sophia was inspired to create her work by Father and Two Sons, one of LS Lowry’s most famous portraits.  

Sophia said “I created my work using student-grade watercolours and graphite pencil for the sketch. I chose this piece especially because I loved the stark contrast between the shadows and the highlights on his face. I chose to represent his picture with a more childlike expression, that was a little more gentle. I didn't think much of it at first. But when my Dad first saw the artwork a few months back he was very impressed. I never imagined having my work in an art gallery like The Lowry and, honestly it has been an amazing experience so far.”

Claire Stewart, Curator, The Lowry Collection at The Lowry said “It’s always a pleasure to see how the entries for the Copley Prize have been inspired by LS Lowry’s work. The pictures submitted over the last ten years have been so creative and varied. Every year I really look forward to seeing the winning entry go on display in the Galleries and it is fantastic to see Sophia’s wonderful painting hung alongside the work it was inspired by.”

Alison Copley said: “Noel and I are so proud of the Copley Prize and how it has evolved. Every year it has become bigger and bigger, and it is fantastic to see what the team at The Lowry have created.  We are now looking forward to the next decade of the Copley Prize. Well done Sophia”

Since 2013, The Copley Prize has received over 3,500 entries and showcased the work of ten talented young artists in The Lowry Galleries. Any primary school-aged children (Key Stage 1 & 2) can submit their work now for the 2024 Copley Prize.   Find out more at https://thelowry.com/get-creative/thecopleyprize/

In 2018 The Lowry additionally launched The Copley Schools Outreach programme that delivers free high-quality visual arts workshops to schools across Salford.  And in 2023, thanks to the continued generosity of Alison and Noel Copley, The Lowry extended its support to schools under a new umbrella of ‘The Copley Children’s Creative Arts Programme’ that combines Performing Arts and Health & Wellbeing as well as Visual Arts.

Coinciding with the unveiling of Sophia’s work in the Galleries a display of works by this year’s runners-up are also on display in The Copley Cases.

The Lowry Galleries are open six days a week. (Tues-Fri, 11am-5pm and Sat-Sun, 10am-5pm). Admittance is free but donations are welcome.

The Lowry Galleries are named The Andrew and Zoe Law Galleries in recognition of the couple’s £1m donation to the arts centre, which is a registered charity.

A furious resident has made an impassioned plea for councillors on Salford’s planning committee to ‘think about the community that you serve’.

Steve Lyon was objecting to the conversion of a small ground-floor apartment into an office and a second, related application for an extension to an adjoining restaurant and external extraction flue in one of the city’s prime residential areas. Both are from the same applicant, Paul Sweeney.

Mr Lyon, along with other residents surrounding the building on Worsley Road in Swinton and backed by local councillor and Conservative group leader Coun Robin Garrido, said there is nowhere for any workers at the office or customers for the restaurant to park.

He argued that there were so many empty offices in Salford saying: “There’s no one in those buildings any more. People are working differently now [since the pandemic] so why do we need another office?

And he alluded to parking problems all around Worsley Road, including Stott Road, which he said was also used as rat run to avoid traffic by other road users. 

“There are 17 objectors to this particular proposal,” he told councillors on Salford’s planning and transportation regulatory panel. “Does that not tell you that we don’t want it and we don’t need it?

“We need housing. I’ve done a search on Right Move and there are 146 office spaces in the locality.

“How many affordable houses were there? Five. Currently, in Salford there are 4,097 people on the housing waiting list. It’s time you started to think about the community you serve.”

Another woman resident told the panel: “We are going to end up like Monton – that’s where people go to have a drink”

Councillors had decided to decide the two related applications as one matter, a decision now criticised by Coun Garrido, who said he would right to planning officers to object over how it was handled.

His argument was that if they had been treated as separate applications the objects and Coun Garrido would have twice the amount of time to make their case against approval to the panel.

Coun Garrido is not on the planning panel, but was addressing his colleagues as a ward councillor.

“This property has had many changes over the last few years. It’s been a florist and an estate agent among other things, and they’ve all closed down within a short time.

“This is not part of a retail area, it’s a residential area and is not suitable for this sort of use.”

He argued that part of the application was for a flue which was too close to the garden of a neighbouring home. 

“We all know what food smells can be emitted from a such a flue, regardless of the filter. What’s it going to be like sitting out in the summer for that resident?” he argued.

“There’s absolutely no parking – not even on-street parking. Even where the shops are on the opposite side of Worsley Road, there’s no parking.

“No consideration seems to be being given to the fact that most people visiting the restaurant will arrive by car.”

Coun Garrido also said there was a shortage of social housing in Swinton and Worsley.

Councillor Bob Clarke also argued that the flue was ‘too close’ to the neighbouring garden. “It’s not going to disperse the fumes and I think it’s too low,” he said. “I’m not happy with the positioning and flues make a noise. If you’re sitting in your garden with that whirring away, it’s not really acceptable.”

Chair of the panel Coun Phil Cusack pointed out that the application was not about the change of use to a restaurant because under planning law, because it is already commercial premises, it is a’ permitted development’.

“We can only take into account policy and planning issues,” he said. “It’s a quasi-judicial process.”

Coun Mike McCusker also countered fears that the restaurant would become a hot food takeaway. “For that to happen, there would need to be a separate application,” he said.

The panel agreed with the planning officers’ recommendation to approve both applications.

Photo ©: Steve Lyon - Via LDRS

A scheme to turn 10 railway arches into a thriving hub of bars, restaurants and cafes has been hailed as ‘absolutely fantastic’ by a councillor who said the area was a ‘dump’ when she grew up there.

The plan for the arches fronting onto Norton Street in Greengate – an area undergoing intensive development and growth – was approved by Salford’s planning and transportation regulatory panel.

Coun Jane Hamilton, whose Blackfriars and Trinity ward the development is in, said: “I think it’s absolutely fantastic for the area.

“I grew up there and it was a dump. I welcome it for lots of reasons, for its social value and I know the residents will love it.”

However, Coun Hamilton’s ward colleague, Coun Roseanna Wain, voiced fears over the ‘loss of amenity’ for residents.

“I’m a bit concerned about [lack of] noise restrictions because there are apartments nearby,” she said. “I would also like to see some continuous waste management to make sure the area is maintained well.”

Coun Wain also voice worries over the possible disturbance from delivery vehicles and policing issues. 

However, chair of the committee Coun Phil Cusack said policing issues were outside the scope of determination by the planning committee. 

Principal planning officer Andrew Williams also responded said that planning conditions would impose a refuse management strategy.

On noise, he said that the bars would only be open from 7pm to 10pm and there was a management plan to control ‘noise outbreak’. 

The applicant is The Arch Company which has bought 5,200 railway arches across the country and spent £200million bringing them back into use.

A councillor has voiced ‘disappointment’ that a 27-storey block on the site of the former McDonald’s regional head office in Salford will be for students rather than ‘desperately needed’ social housing. 

Coun John Warmisham was speaking as the plan for the block on land at Cross Lane in his Pendleton and Charlestown ward was approved by the city’s planning and transportation regulatory panel.

He told colleagues: “I’m disappointed that this isn’t for social or affordable housing, because that’s what’s reall desperately needed in the area.”

But he said he was supportive of the Salford Crescent Development Framework in which the development sits.

“I also understand totally the desperate need for student accommodation in the city,” he said. “So I welcome this. There’s a lot of work gone into it. It’s not the usual monstrosity of a box that they often throw up.”

The developer Q Developments will also contribute £1m for ‘specific projects in the area as part of a Section 106 agreement.

The building will comprise of two blocks – a 19-storey adjoined ‘shoulder’ and a main, 27-storey tower – with a total of 538 bed spaces provided.

Pedestrians will gain access from Cross Lane, with a new landscaped plaza leading from the footway and a pelican crossing. Q says the tower has been designed with a ‘clear and simple aesthetic’.

Coun Warmisham also said he was worried about how the block would be policed, citing crime issues in his ward. He also said that the development might take pressure off Salford where numerous houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) had sprung up, so that they could be returned to be used for families.

Chair of the panel Coun Phil Cusack said the block was ‘much needed’ in Salford, adding: “I would like to encourage the developer to discuss the management of the property with local councillors as well as how the £1million Secion 106 cash would be spent.

The former Buile Hill Mining Museum is to be converted into a stunning new wedding venue.

Salford councillors have approved plans which will enable the restoration of Buile Hill Mansion in Weaste, a building which has been vacant since 2000 when The Mining Museum closed.

Plans approved by the city council’s planning and transportation regulatory panel, also gave the green light to the demolition of outbuildings in the adjacent Buile Hill depot to create a car park.

However, campaigners in a group bidding to get one of the outbuildings, the Buile Hill Park greenhouse preserved and also restored at a cost of up to £1.75million wanted the glass structure excluded from the demolition plan.

They are now in talks with landowners, the city council, over a way to preserve the building which dates back to 1930. Chair of Buile Hill Greenhouse Association, Doug Provos,  said the building was ‘saveable’ in an address to the committee.

“We think the retaining of the greenhouse won’t affect the plan,” he said, “although there may need to be some reworking of the drainage arrangements.”

The Grade II-listed mansion dates back to 1825 and forms part of the weir Buile Hill Park, bounded by Eccles Old Road and Weaste Lane. 

The site also includes its private gardens as well as Buile Hill Park Hall – a function and banqueting hall.

In the mansion, there will be a cafe and bar and there will be external seating in the proposed Mansion Cafe Rose Garden.

The first floor would accommodate ceremony rooms, a circulation area, a community and staff rooms. The community room would be available for use by groups and other stakeholders.

However, the plan to clad an external staircase of the building with polycarbonate material drew criticism.

Coun Bob Clarke said: “It’s nice to see the building brought back into use, but I’m concerned over the using plastic blocks, because they can get discoloured over time.”

He also said he was ‘not happy’ that the greenhouse is included in the outbuildings for which there is now approval for them to be demolished. 

Meanwhile, Coun John Warmisham said: “I think we should give some praise and thanks to the various organisations who have tried to protect Buile Hill Mansion. (The BHMA or Buile Hill Mansion Assositation).

“They’ve done a superb job and that’s where we are today.”

And the Labour councillor joked that he ‘always hated’ to agree with his Conservative committee colleague Coun Clarke by saying: “I have some concerns about sticking a plastic carbuncle on the side of a listed building.”

Chair of the committee Coun Phil Cusack said that although the greenhouse was included in the outbuildings, it would not necessarily be demolished as part of the plan.

“What we are saying is that it can be demolished if decisions are made that it can’t be saved. Personally, I want the greenhouse retained as well.”

Police in Salford are appealing for information after a man was spotted performing an indecent act while sitting in a black Ford Fiesta in the Ellesmere Park area of Eccles at around 9:30am on Saturday 16 September 2023.

Although police believe this to be an isolated incident, they say that there will be extra neighbourhood officers in the area to provide reassurance to the local community.

If anyone has any information in relation to this incident, or any dashcam footage from the area at the time, please call 101 quoting log 1087-16/09/23.

Bridget Griffiths from Little Hulton was a funny, witty, and wonderful woman who lived in Manchester for 25 years.

Her book, Feck Off Ya Auld Eejit, contains tales of family, filled with humour, warmth, wit and sadness that tumbled from her distinctive Irish imagination.

Having spent her final weeks at St Ann’s Hospice, Bridget’s family are now selling her book to raise money for the charity and to share the creative stories their loved one wrote.

Having grown up in Dublin in poverty, Bridget drew from her experience as a child growing up in the tenement blocks of North Dublin which inspired her writing.

Earlier this year Bridget was diagnosed with a slowly growing lung cancer, but after a fall where she thought she’d broken her collar bone, she was diagnosed with bone cancer too and given 48 hours to live.

Bridget’s daughter, Siobhan Fogarty, and partner Richard wanted to stay by her side after her diagnosis was given in hospital. However, Siobhan says: “Mum didn’t want to die in hospital, it wasn’t the place to die peacefully, so we’re so thankful that she got a place at St Ann’s Hospice.”

“Mum was at Little Hulton site for two weeks, and I can’t express enough how the hospice were nothing but incredible and beautiful with her. Considering how horrendous the illness and whole time was, the hospice made her death a better experience.”

Bridget died on 15th March 2023, at 88 years old, being remembered as a very young, stylish, and funny lady.

Bridget had written stories that have now been compiled into a book. At 14 years old she left school and shortly after that came to Manchester where she worked as a cleaner and did her English O level. She had always enjoyed writing but after being told she wasn’t good she didn’t pick up her pen again until she was 80 years old.

Bridget had a huge Facebook following with hundreds of writers, critics, journalists, and Irish folk praising her writing. However, she never had the confidence to compile her stories into a published book.

Siobhan says: “These fabulous stories, which met with critical acclaim on Facebook and beyond, are her legacy, providing a marvellous insight into the truly feckin’ wonderful woman she was.

“For the two weeks she was in the hospice we collated the stories together, staying at the hospice day and night with no sleep to stay with Mum and finish the book. Mum died before we could get it published.

“We hope that from the book people see a woman who educated herself from poverty to success. Of course, there is lots of Irish language and snapshots of a beautiful moving story.”

Bridget was happy that all proceeds of the book would be going to St Ann’s Hospice, as that is what the family decided as they felt so supported and cared for by hospice.

Siobhan says: “I didn’t have any experience of a hospice before. At the hospital we were sleeping on the floor but at the hospice we were given a room with beds in so that my stepfather and I could sleep by her side. Knowing we didn’t have to go home was massively important to us.”

So far, Siobhan and Richard have raised over £3000 from Bridget’s tribute page and book proceeds, and they want to keep the legacy of Bridget book to continue through her book to raise money for St Ann’s Hospice.

To buy Bridget’s book in paperback for £9 or on kindle for £5 here.

At around 12.15am ,Tuesday 19 September 2023, officers were called to a road traffic collision involving a car and a pedestrian on the M62.

Emergency services attended the scene, and sadly a man in his 30s was pronounced dead at the scene. His family are being supported through this difficult time by specially trained officers.

Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances of the man being a pedestrian on the motorway prior to being struck.

A 25-year-old man remained at the scene and was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has been released on bail whilst enquiries continue.

An investigation has been launched by GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit and enquiries are ongoing. 

Officers are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this incident;  or may have dashcam footage of the collision or of the pedestrian on the motorway; to make contact Greater Manchester Police.

The M62 between Eccles and Birchwood was closed in both directions whilst collision investigation work was undertaken.  We thank the public for their patience and understanding whilst we worked to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident.

Information can be shared with them by calling 0161 856 4741 quoting incident number 30 of 19/9/2023. You can also make a report via the website www.gmp.police.uk.

Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Photo ©: Google Maps

A moving tribute has been paid to an NHS boss ‘dedicated to improving the lives of people in Salford’ by the city’s ceremonial mayor.

Coun Gina Reynolds was speaking in the wake of the passing of Steve Dixon, who until April this year was the chief delivery officer for the new Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board.

Her speech and a minute’s silence was the prelude to today’s Salford city council meeting.

According to the JustGiving page set up by Salford Community abnd Voluntary Services (CVS) Steve had been diagnosed with oesophgael cancer earlier this year ‘a particularly aggressive, cruel and quick cancer’.

Coun Reynolds said that Steve had a career in the NHS spanning 30 years, 19 of which were in Salford and he lived in the city near Salford Royal Hospital for 15 years.

He was chief financial officer and later the chief accountable officer of the Salford Clinical Commissioning Group which was recognised during his time as ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission for five consecutive years.

“I got to know Steve in my former role as lead member for adult services, health and wellbeing and sat with him on several health boards and committees with him,” she said.

“I round him to be a really caring and compassionate man with a dry sense of humour who was always extremely supportive of all his colleagues.

“He was very well respected and loved by everyone who knew him.”

She described him as an ‘outstanding leader’ who played an invaluable role in developing strategic partnerships with health and social care organisations.

“He was there at the forefront of changes,” she said. “He was tackling health inequalities with a real passion and he was very keen on engaging and working with local communities which were very much at the top of his agenda.

“Steve was dedicated to improving the lives of the people of this city. He leaves a lasting legacy for the residents of Salford. He will be greatly missed and will never be forgotten.”

Coun Reynolds’ words were echoed by city mayor Paul Dennett who said the whole council was shocked by Steve’s passing following his short battle with cancer.

The new Salford Youth Zone has been granted planning permission by Salford City Council and is set to begin development in winter 2023, with the opening of the Youth Zone estimated for early 2025. 

The Youth Zone will be situated adjacent to Belverdere Rd and Broadwalk in Pendleton, a prominent position just off the A6 facing the University of Salford.

Once construction is complete, Salford Youth Zone will open to young people (aged 8-19, and up to 25 with additional needs) 7 days a week, 52 weeks of the year.

Salford Youth Zone will provide young people access to incredible facilities in a vibrant, purpose-built space packed with over 20 engaging activities per session: including a state-of-the-art gym, recording studio, rock climbing wall, sensory room and employability support. Young people will have opportunity to make friends, develop new skills and have fun, all for just 50p per visit and one £5 annual membership.

In addition to the advanced facilities, trained youth workers and dedicated volunteers will be available to offer guidance and support to help Salford’s young people to thrive. The Youth Zone will create up to 70 full and part time jobs and up to 100 volunteering opportunities. 

Salford Youth Zone is being developed by EMPOWER – an umbrella charity which already oversees the operations of another local Youth Zone, HideOut Youth Zone, in East Manchester.

EMPOWER will deliver the new Youth Zone in partnership with Salford City Council and the national youth charity, OnSide, who has supported the creation and development of 15 Youth Zones across the U.K. 

CEO of EMPOWER, Adam Farricker, said: 

“Gaining this approval is exciting news for every single young person in Salford and we can’t wait to get on site and begin construction. This planning approval is a major step forward in the project and we are delighted that the hard work it has taken to get to this point, has now paid off. 

“The potential the Youth Zone has for Salford and its future generation is unprecedented – it will change the lives of thousands of young people. We’ve got the experience of HideOut Youth Zone – our Youth Zone over in East Manchester – which has seen incredible success in its first three years of operation, and I’m confident that we can achieve the same success over in Salford.”

Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett said:

“It is great news that the Salford Youth Zone has formally been granted planning permission by the panel. 

“A huge thanks goes to Fred Done once again for his very kind donation that has made this dream become a reality. When it is open Salford Youth Zone it will make such a difference to the lives of young people in the city. It will also create jobs and volunteering opportunities for local people.”

Sam Power, of Studio Power LTD, the organisation behind the design of the new Youth Zone said:

 “Working with the team at EMPOWER and OnSide is a fantastic opportunity to provide another world class youth centre in our local area. 

“Creating a visually appealing, safe and inspiring place for young people to enjoy was a key consideration in the overall design. It’s great that the planning application has now been approved and we’re a step closer to seeing designs come to life.”

A summer school for school and university teachers in Ukraine led by the University of Salford is aiming to help get education back off the ground in the war-torn country.

Since the Russian invasion teaching, and especially field-trips in subjects like geography and environmental studies have been severely disrupted.

Taking place this September in neighbouring Romania, the training will offer talks from a range of experts covering a variety of approaches of the use of digital tools, helping to support learning and accessibility in environmental education, despite the huge disruption facing the country.

Speakers from a several countries will attend the event, starting this week, supplementing practical training with support from Thinglink, an online education platform, to provide skills in an innovative approach to fieldwork that will also help support accessibility and inclusion in environmental education.

Dr Simon Hutchinson, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Sciences at the University of Salford, will be leading the summer school alongside Marcel Mindrescu, a Romanian Geography lecturer.

It will be delivered in a hybrid format with the event being streamed online due to the restrictions on entering and leaving Ukraine. Promoted by the Royal Geographical Society and the Manchester Geography Society, the summer school will be held in the University of Suceava’s facility in the Carpathian Mountains in North Eastern Romania, with participants coming from across Czechia, Slovakia, Poland, the Republic of Moldova and Romania.

Dr Hutchinson said: “My hope is that the event will help ‘train the trainers’ and empower staff members to develop their own digital tools to enhance their classes and student engagement.

“Right now, it is more important than ever to support Ukraine’s Higher Education System. With the summer school, we will be able to bring digital skills that will open up new doors for students starting yet another term with a war ranging in their country.”

Earlier this year Simon helped to create Virtual Field Trips (VFTs), a digital learning tool that has allowed Ukrainian students virtually complete field-based work to support a range of geographical studies, as in the current climate, fieldwork is almost impossible in many areas.

The University of Salford teamed up with Karazin Kharkiv National University and Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv to deliver co-creation workshops so students could learn to create their own Virtual Field Trips, and this summer school, funded by the Central European Initiative, is showing Ukrainian geography teachers how to make and use VFTs to continue to support students and their Higher Education.

Dr Hutchinson added: “Despite some field-based learning beginning to surface again, Higher Education in Ukraine continues to be severely disrupted. With this kind of support, the education system for students and staff can slowly start to be reconstructed.”

Currently pursuing her MSc in Biotechnology at the University of Salford, Ozgun Ceren Avincsal has embarked on an ambitious journey to reshape the landscape of biotech consultancy. Through her company, Healium Health Limited, she is set out to simplify the process for those keen on establishing clinics or laboratories and ensuring their smooth accreditation. With Launch@ Salford, this mission is steadily becoming a reality.

Launch, Salford Business School's purpose-built incubation space, is designed to support Salford students and graduates through the start-up phase of their business journeys. Launch provides the physical space for budding entrepreneurs to share ideas with like-minded people, organise meetings, and seek crucial support from industry experts.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the critical significance of biotechnology became even more apparent. Recognising this pivotal moment, Ozgun strategically diversified Healium Health's supply chain for lab consumables, establishing a connection between Turkey and the UK. This move not only ensured the delivery of high-quality products but also emphasised cost-effectiveness and affordability for consumers.

Ozgun expressed, "Our collaboration with Launch@ Salford has been pivotal for Healium Health's progression. Their consistent support, paired with their insightful business mentoring, has magnified our potential. Their skill in connecting us with the right resources has been invaluable to our journey."

Paul Little, Incubation Manager at Launch@ Salford, remarked, "Ozgun stands as a shining example of the entrepreneurial determination and innovative vision we champion at Salford Business School. Her dedication to revolutionising biotech consultancy, coupled with her relentless pursuit to provide accessible, high-quality lab consumables, underscores the transformative potential our alumni bring to their respective fields."

In recognition of her forward-thinking and innovative contributions to the biotech sector, Ozgun was honoured with the prestigious Santander UK Universities award, underscoring her dedication and the promise of Healium Health.

Looking towards the future, Ozgun envisions expanding Healium Health's reach. She contemplates the possibility of establishing a dedicated diagnostic or research lab in the UK, aiming to strengthen Healium Health's foothold in biotech consultancy.

For more information about Launch@ Salford, please visit: https://www.salford.ac.uk/our-facilities/launch-salford.

Salford residents are being warned to be on their guard against rogue traders knocking on doors in the city.

Salford Trading Standards have been alerted to a number of reports recently where residents have been targeted by rogue traders offering building and roofing work, which has not been delivered or has been done to a poor standard, and in some instances, for extortionate amounts of money, and with no written contracts in place.

Trading Standards consider all cases received and have a number of ongoing criminal investigations.

Rogue traders will often call uninvited and pressure residents into agreeing to go ahead with work at short notice.  The work they provide is often grossly overpriced and very poor quality.  They often use pressure tactics to extract additional payments.

They often target vulnerable individuals, the elderly, and those who may be less familiar with the home improvement process, leaving them financially exploited and often with unsafe and unsatisfactory work completed.

Lead Member for Environment, Neighbourhoods, Sports and Leisure, Councillor Barbara Bentham said: "These deceptive practices are deeply concerning. To protect our community, we are actively pursuing these culprits. Salford City Council has a proven track record of successfully prosecuting rogue traders and will make every effort to hold them accountable.

"Following steps, such as not contracting with a stranger who knocks on your door, getting three quotes, checking reviews, and avoiding payments up front for a job in cash, will help keep you safe."

Below are some tips from Trading Standards to help people avoid falling victim to these scammers:

Do your research: Always research the background and reputation of a trader or builder before engaging their services. Check for reviews, testimonials, and online presence to gauge their credibility.

Get multiple quotes: always get quotes from at least three different traders to make a fair comparison of pricing and scope of work.

Ask for references: Request references from previous clients and follow up on them to gather honest feedback about the quality of their work and professionalism.

Ask for written agreements: Insist on a written contract outlining the business details, terms, costs, and timeframe for the project to ensure clarity and accountability.

Avoid cash payments: Don't make cash payments upfront and use a secure payment method that allows for traceability.

Trust your instincts: If something feels too good to be true or if a trader exerts undue pressure on you to make quick decisions, step back and reassess the situation.

Councillor Bentham continued: "I'd urge everyone to be on their guard and take precautions when hiring tradespeople for home projects.  Please keep a watchful eye on elderly or vulnerable family, friends and neighbours so scammers can't prey on them."

To report a trader call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 – and if you have been conned, don't be embarrassed to come forward. Your help could spare someone else."

The M62 motorway has been closed in both directions as GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit responded to an incident involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.

At around 12.15am on Tuesday 19 September 2023, officers were called to a road traffic collision involving a car and a pedestrian on the M62.

Emergency services attended the scene, and sadly an adult male was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 25-year-old man remained at the scene was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Police say that he has been taken to custody for further questioning.

Enquiries are ongoing at this stage.

The M62 between Eccles and Birchwood will be closed in both directions and is expected to remain closed through the morning while officers conduct their investigations.

Alternative diversions are being put in place, please avoid the area.

In the early hours of this morning (Monday 18 September), Operation Vulcan executed a warrant at a property on Choral Grove, Salford, in relation to suspected prescription drug supply in the Cheetham Hill area.

A 39-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class C drugs.

Police also recovered significant amounts of cash inside the property.

In July this year, Operation Vulcan took on their biggest challenge yet when they seized a record-breaking number of counterfeit items, drugs and vapes stored in shipping containers on the outskirts of Cheetham Hill. This warrant was deemed the UK’s largest police operation to tackle the counterfeit trade which ranked amongst the largest globally.

One of the containers stored thousands of prescription drugs which detectives now believe to have traced back to a man in Salford.

Since then, Operation Vulcan launched an extensive investigation into the illegal supply of prescription drugs in Manchester, which included another record-breaking seizure in August, which saw police seize around £2 million worth – dubbed the largest single seizure of illicit prescription medication in UK history.

This arrest is the latest in a series targeting those suspected of being involved in the supply of illicit prescription drugs.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Julien, one of Operation Vulcan's specialist officer's, said: “The warrant we executed in July placed Greater Manchester Police and Operation Vulcan onto the global stage with a record-breaking single seizure of counterfeit items and drugs, which highlighted the true extent of the criminality linked to the counterfeit trade which was happening on our doorstep.

“Since then, we’ve worked closely with partners to trace where these items came from, and who they belonged to, which ultimately led us to this property in Salford today.

“With the overt criminality in the area gone, we’re able to identify those higher up the chain responsible for flooding our streets with drugs and the associated violence. People’s lives are being destroyed by the misuse of prescription drugs and we will continue to disrupt and dismantle the supply chains operating out of the Cheetham Hill and Strangeways areas.”

If you suspect someone is illegally supplying prescription drugs or illicit substances, please report it online or via LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk.”

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

A Salford bowling club has been given a welcome funding boost after being named winners of this year's Springboard Heroes Awards.

Chandos Bowling Club has been crowned Springboard Heroes 2023 winners in the annual awards organised by housing association Salix Homes to recognise community groups and initiatives that are making a difference in neighbourhoods across Salford.

After a month-long public vote with hundreds of votes cast, it was a close contest between the four finalists - Ordsall Community Arts group, Salford Forum for Refugees and People Seeking Asylum, Visit from the Stork and the eventual winner Chandos Bowling Club.

The bowling club wins a £1,000 cash boost, which they will be using towards the upkeep of the clubhouse, with the runners-up each receiving £100.

The bowling club, based in Weaste, has been at the heart of the community for more than 50 years, providing much-needed sporting and social activities which are open to all.

Its members describe it as an "oasis in the middle of Salford" and for many, it's been a lifeline for helping to overcome isolation or mental health issues.

Club Treasurer Irene Travis said: "We are thrilled to be named Springboard Heroes 2023 winner – it's amazing. I can't thank everyone enough who gave their vote to us, it means such a lot. We're not just a bowling club, we are a family, we are here to help everyone, and the money will help to keep us going.

"I also want to thank Salix Homes – the Springboard Heroes competition gave us the opportunity to let more people know about us and the work we do. It will mean so much to everyone who gives their time and energy to help residents who need us more now than ever."

The bowling club is a lively and friendly space offering a safe and inclusive place to exercise, meet with friends and get some fresh air, providing an important boost to people's health and wellbeing.

Sue Sutton, Chief Executive at Salix Homes said: "Springboard Heroes is our way of celebrating some of the fantastic work that people are doing to help the residents of Salford, and Chandos Bowling Club do exactly that. You can see from the number of members who turn up and play that it is a really important part of the community.

"Clubs Like Chandos are crucial as they provide a vital outlet for residents, providing lasting benefits to people's health and wellbeing. They're a very worthy winner of this year's Springboard Heroes Awards and it's projects like these that make our communities so special, so we hope our donation will go some way in supporting them to continue the fantastic work that they do."

The club is also looking to expand its membership and welcomes all enquiries.

Salix Homes has donated more than £49,000 to dozens of local groups and initiatives across Salford this year as part of its Springboard community grant programme, which provides much-needed cash injections to local projects that boost community spirit, promote health and wellbeing, reduce isolation and improve the environment.

To apply for a Springboard grant, visit https://salixhomes.co.uk/springboard