Manchester City Council - Environment and planning news

Statement regarding east Manchester Joint Development Board

Published Friday 12th March 2010

Following an article in today's Manchester Evening News, both Manchester City Council and Manchester City Football Club would like to reiterate the following information.

Sixth form college takes gold for green design

Published Thursday 11th March 2010

A Manchester sixth form college has scooped a top national award for excellence in eco-design.

Going the extra green mile for Manchester

Published Friday 5th March 2010

Children from schools across Manchester will be putting their best foot forward for the annual Green Miles competition which starts on Monday 8 March 2010.

Work starts on new Police Divisional HQ in east Manchester

Published Friday 5th March 2010

Work has started on the new £35m Divisional Headquarters for Greater Manchester Police (GMP) at Central Park in Newton Heath in east Manchester, just one and a half miles from Manchester city centre.

New powers stop spread of shared houses

Published Wednesday 3rd March 2010

Manchester City Council is to begin using new planning powers aimed at stopping parts of the city becoming overrun with shared houses.

City’s million pound climate change boost

Published Tuesday 2nd March 2010

Residents and organisations are set to help Manchester achieve its goals of tackling climate change after benefiting from a million pound boost from Manchester City Council.

Recyclers’ golden opportunity to help schools

Published Tuesday 2nd March 2010

Household recycling will be turned into bonuses for youngsters as residents receive ‘golden tickets’ to help local schools.

Loan shark ordered to pay £1.2 million

Published Thursday 25th February 2010

A loan shark who preyed on hundreds of vulnerable people has been ordered to pay £1.2 million into the courts - the largest sum since the Stop Loan Sharks project began.

East Manchester reviews a decade of regeneration

Published Wednesday 24th February 2010

As part of a review of the ten-year New Deal for Communities in east Manchester, open discussions will take place next month to gather views from local east Manchester residents on its impact.

Chorlton consultation findings released

Published Monday 22nd February 2010

The headline findings of a consultation into how Chorlton’s district centre can be improved have been published today, Friday 19 February.

Shop ignores underage knife sales warning

Published Friday 19th February 2010

A shop that sold a knife to a 15-year-old boy three months after being warned about underage sales has been ordered to pay nearly £1,000.

Fallowfield and Withington: Chance to shape action plan

Published Friday 12th February 2010

Residents, shoppers and traders in Fallowfield and Withington are being quizzed on their aspirations for the future of the areas’ two district centres.

100 people get jobs through employment initiative

Published Wednesday 3rd February 2010

A scheme to get unemployed east Manchester residents into work has so far helped secure 100 people with jobs in the construction industry and offer training to over three hundred local people.

New planning powers will benefit neighbourhoods

Published Tuesday 2nd February 2010

Manchester City Council is welcoming the prospect of new powers to control the spread of shared rented homes across the city and moves to prevent the worst private landlords from letting homes.

Government praises Manchester’s climate change plan

Published Monday 1st February 2010

Manchester City Council has been chosen as one of nine pioneering authorities to receive support from the government in tackling climate change.

St Peter’s Square international design competition launched

Published Wednesday 27th January 2010

Manchester City Council has launched the first phase of an international design competition to transform St Peter’s Square into a world-class public space.

Pupils turn phone books into allotments

Published Wednesday 27th January 2010

Primary school pupils are to start growing fruit and vegetables on their school grounds, thanks to a cash prize they won for recycling telephone directories.

Hotels cosy up with green scheme

Published Friday 22nd January 2010

City centre hotels are saving thousands of pounds on energy bills after joining an award-winning Manchester City Council environmental scheme.

Extra staff clean streets following freeze

Published Thursday 21st January 2010

Extra staff have been used to pick litter, making sure Manchester's streets are back to their usual clean state following the recent bad weather.

Recyclers provide clothes for African children

Published Wednesday 20th January 2010

Members of the public are being invited to swap their unwanted Christmas presents while helping African children during a recycling event being held this weekend.

City’s bin collections back on track

Published Monday 11th January 2010

A huge effort is underway to get the city’s waste collections back on track following the severe weather.

There’s snow business like a community-spirited business

Published Friday 8th January 2010

Manchester City Council has praised public - spirited businesses which have cleared the areas outside their premises of snow and ice.

Cemeteries staff work through cold snap

Published Thursday 7th January 2010

Manchester cemeteries staff have been working through the cold snap to make sure bereaved families are not faced with delays to funeral services.

Giant Christmas tree to be recycled

Published Wednesday 30th December 2009

Manchester’s giant Christmas tree on Albert Square is being recycled for use in the city’s parks.

Publican fined over gnawed nuts

Published Tuesday 22nd December 2009

The owner of a pub where a packet of nuts was found gnawed on the bar and a dead mouse was discovered in the beer cellar has been ordered to pay more than £1,000.

£1m worth of fake goods seized

Published Thursday 17th December 2009

Christmas shoppers have been saved from buying poor quality fakes after trading standards officers seized one million pounds worth of counterfeit items during a raid.

West Gorton regeneration plans back on track

Published Wednesday 16th December 2009

A revised masterplan for West Gorton in east Manchester has today been approved by Manchester City Council’s Executive.

Over sixties step up a gear

Published Tuesday 15th December 2009

Drivers over the age of 60 can now start gearing up for a free skills refresher course run by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM).

Manchester’s climate plan goes global

Published Tuesday 15th December 2009

Manchester City Council leader Sir Richard Leese will join city mayors from every continent at climate talks in Copenhagen.

Christmas shoppers urged to take care

Published Friday 11th December 2009

Manchester trading standards officers are warning Christmas shoppers to take care when looking for festive bargains after they seized 100s of counterfeit and potentially dangerous hair straighteners.

Greater Manchester’s Single Conversation brings together £370million investment in housing and regeneration

Published Friday 11th December 2009

A groundbreaking agreement has been launched by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA).

Manchester’s climate change plan goes live

Published Wednesday 9th December 2009

A website featuring details of Manchester’s ambitious plan to tackle climate change has gone live.

Climate change festival comes to Manchester

Published Tuesday 8th December 2009

The world’s first solar powered cinema along with celebrities such as the BBC’s Chris Packham are coming to Manchester as part of a festival to promote the city’s bid to tackle climate change.

Europe backs cities’ Copenhagen call for high speed rail to cut CO2

Published Monday 7th December 2009

Now is the time for Britain to join the high speed rail revolution if it is to meet the emissions targets on the table at Copenhagen next week.

Ed Miliband helps launch Manchester’s climate change plan

Published Friday 4th December 2009

Climate change minister Ed Miliband will help launch Manchester’s ambitious plan to tackle climate change during his last public appearance before attending the landmark Copenhagen summit.

Council approves plans for Wythenshawe town centre

Published Friday 4th December 2009

Manchester City Council has endorsed plans for major improvements to Wythenshawe town centre including a new bus station at Forum Square and the creation of a council district office at Etrop Court.

What time is it? It’s tree o’clock!

Published Wednesday 2nd December 2009

Manchester residents are being urged to help make a new world record this weekend by helping plant thousands of trees to make the city’s parks and gardens even greener.

Student Masterchefs cook up new courses

Published Friday 27th November 2009

Student food lovers showed off their culinary skills - and their ability to make the household budget last longer - in a Masterchef-style cookery contest.

Ancoats public realm wins national urban design award

Published Tuesday 24th November 2009

The public realm works in Ancoats, east Manchester, have won the Landscape Institute’s Urban Design and Master Planning 2009 Award. The award recognises the significant improvements made to the area including the renewal of the streets and pavements, as well as the introduction of the Peeps art installation and Cutting Room Square, a new public square in Ancoats, that opened in June this year.

Work starts on £40 million east Manchester retail development

Published Tuesday 24th November 2009

A ground-breaking ceremony to mark the start on site of the first phase of the development of the new Openshaw district centre, to be anchored by an 80,000 sq ft Morrisons store, has taken place.

Taxi drivers graduate from charm school

Published Friday 20th November 2009

More than 300 Manchester taxi drivers have completed courses to develop skills such as customer services.

Manchester gardeners take home more awards

Published Friday 20th November 2009

Green-fingered Mancunians have shown pride in their neighbourhoods by creating beautiful gardens across the city.

Students clear up south Manchester neighbourhoods

Published Wednesday 11th November 2009

Neighbourhoods across south Manchester have been spruced up after hundreds of students worked with Manchester City Council on a huge volunteering project.

Manchester takes the lead on climate change

Published Wednesday 11th November 2009

Ambitious plans that will see Manchester aiming to become a world leader in tackling climate change are being considered next week by Manchester City Council.

Kick start for homes on former stadium site

Published Thursday 29th October 2009

A housing development on the site of Manchester City’s former Maine Road stadium in Moss Side has received a £9.4 million boost.

Bumper crop of awards in North Manchester

Published Wednesday 28th October 2009

North Manchester’s green-fingered residents are celebrating this week, after scooping a record 30 awards at the RHS North West in Bloom finals.

Blooming 'eck - residents do Manchester proud

Published Wednesday 28th October 2009

Manchester’s green-fingered residents have done the city proud - coming back from this year’s RHS North West in Bloom finals with a record 64 awards.

Council cracks down on “rogue traders” selling fireworks.

Published Wednesday 28th October 2009

In a bid to tackle the misery which can be caused by the misuse of fireworks Manchester City Council will be banning street traders from selling fireworks from portable cabins.

Stolen bronze plaques replaced in time for Remembrance Day

Published Monday 26th October 2009

Following the theft of six bronze war memorial plaques in early November last year from Philips Park Cemetery, the replacement panels will be unveiled in time for this year’s Remembrance Day.

New Beswick shopping parade completed

Published Monday 26th October 2009

Work is complete on a new temporary parade of shops in Beswick, which includes the Beswick supermarket and the post office and chemist, which have been relocated just yards from their former location.

Bakery firm selects east Manchester for northern base

Published Tuesday 13th October 2009

Fine Lady Bakeries, a family owned company based in Banbury in Oxfordshire, has selected Central Park in Newton Heath, east Manchester as its preferred location for its northern base.

No waste at New Smithfield Market

Published Monday 12th October 2009

Food and waste management is a hot topic at the moment but New Smithfield Market is ahead of the field when it comes to addressing the issue.

It’s blooming marvellous in North Manchester

Published Monday 12th October 2009

North Manchester is poised to sweep the board at this year’s North West in Bloom competition, with a staggering 30 entries making it to the final,

Residents sounded out on Triangle plans

Published Tuesday 6th October 2009

Fallowfield residents are being invited to an exhibition to see proposals for a landmark scheme to help revitalise Fallowfield Triangle and bring more jobs to the area.

Manchester expresses frustration over recycling figures

Published Tuesday 6th October 2009

Manchester City Council councillors and officers have expressed extreme frustration after figures appear to show a dip in the city’s recycling figures, despite residents recycling more than ever.

Athletes lumber up for Tree-athlon

Published Thursday 1st October 2009

A children’s TV star and a falconry display are just a few of the attractions on offer in Heaton Park this weekend as athletes help make Manchester a greener place.

Environmental scheme praised as good apple

Published Monday 28th September 2009

A Manchester City Council scheme which has saved businesses half a million pounds by encouraging them to boost their green credentials has won a prestigious national award.

City centre officially blooming lovely

Published Friday 25th September 2009

Manchester city centre has scooped a prestigious award in a national gardening competition.

Manchester set to join 10:10 climate group

Published Wednesday 23rd September 2009

Manchester City Council is set to become the largest UK local authority to pledge to cut its carbon emissions by a tenth over the next year.

Council to improve road safety measures for older people

Published Wednesday 23rd September 2009

Manchester City Council has been awarded funding of £500,000 to increase road safety measures for older people across Manchester.

Chorlton consultation launched

Published Wednesday 23rd September 2009

Chorlton residents and traders are to being invited to help shape the future of the area’s district centre.

September makeover in store for city

Published Monday 21st September 2009

Manchester City Council is joining forces with residents to give the city an autumn makeover.

BMX bandit shows benefits of car-free travel

Published Monday 21st September 2009

A world BMX champion will be demonstrating his breathtaking bike skills as part of a Manchester City Council event promoting the benefits of leaving the car at home.

Residents and businesses have their say on plans to pedestrianise the Village

Published Friday 18th September 2009

Manchester City Council, GMP and Cityco, are asking the public what they think of new plans to ease over crowding and improve safety in one of the most vibrant areas of Manchester.

Cash boost for community group to provide facilities for the hearing impaired.

Published Friday 18th September 2009

Manchester City Council has provided two grants to a Northenden community organisation so that it can provide facilities that will benefit the hearing impaired.

Stay safe message for students

Published Wednesday 16th September 2009

Manchester City Council will be driving home the road safety message to students next week.

New design hooks in Wythenshawe recyclers

Published Wednesday 16th September 2009

One small change made a big difference for residents in Wythenshawe, after Manchester City Council stepped in to redesign their communal recycling site.

Pupils get teeth into breakfast lessons

Published Tuesday 15th September 2009

Pedal power is being used to give Manchester youngsters a taste for the importance of breakfast.

BBC and youngsters spread recycling message

Published Tuesday 8th September 2009

Youngsters will pit their wits against adults in an effort to help more children recycle as part of a BBC programme to be screened today (Tuesday 8 September).

Manchester recyclers push city to top

Published Tuesday 8th September 2009

Mancunians have pushed their city to the top by pledging to recycle more - and two lucky residents have been rewarded for their efforts with shopping vouchers.

Thousands of flat residents to recycle

Published Tuesday 8th September 2009

Thousands of residents living in flats will be able to recycle for the first time thanks to new services being introduced by Manchester City Council.

Blackley flower power as community garden opens on garage site

Published Monday 7th September 2009

Just twelve months ago the residents of Mirfield Road gardening club in Higher Blackley had the nuts and bolts of a plan to turn a row of disused garages into a community garden.

Flying start for Manchester’s recycling revolution

Published Monday 7th September 2009

Residents across south Manchester have helped recycling levels take off, with the amount of recycled waste jumping by the weight of two Airbus A380 jets.

Council crackdown on smoking on buses

Published Monday 24th August 2009

Anti-social smokers who persist on flouting the law by smoking on public transport could now face an on the spot fine.

Students are barking mad about recycling

Published Wednesday 19th August 2009

Abandoned dogs have benefited from a Manchester City Council campaign encouraging students to recycle and reuse their property as they leave their homes.

Recycling Yellow Pages has never bin so easy

Published Wednesday 19th August 2009

Manchester City Council is calling on residents to help set a new record for recycling their old Yellow Pages by simply putting them in their blue bins for kerbside collection.

Cycle safety youngsters get the chance to scoop top prize.

Published Friday 7th August 2009

Safety conscious youngsters cycling around Northenden, Brooklands and Baguley during the summer holiday could end up scooping top prizes.

It’s paradise in Harpurhey!

Published Tuesday 28th July 2009

A Harpurhey community has created a garden paradise in memory of two much loved residents.

Improving cemeteries is a NEET idea

Published Tuesday 28th July 2009

Young people who have previously had little or no work experience are assisting Manchester City Council’s Bereavement Services to improve the city’s cemeteries.

Green vehicles are not rubbish

Published Friday 24th July 2009

Pupils at Oswald Road school in Chortlon received a visit from Manchester City Council’s recycling team with one of their brand new, environmentally friendly recycling vehicles.

New parade created for Beswick shops

Published Wednesday 22nd July 2009

As part of the on-going development work to create a new shopping centre for Beswick, the supermarket has reopened after being closed for a few weeks for refurbishment.

Youngsters together in electric-free dreams

Published Friday 17th July 2009

Residents are being invited to an environmental event taking place this weekend supported by Manchester City Council.

Last chance to enter gardening contest

Published Wednesday 15th July 2009

Manchester’s green-fingered residents are being reminded this week is their last chance to enter Manchester City Council’s gardening competition.

Daring diarists to cut food waste

Published Friday 10th July 2009

Families across Greater Manchester have vowed to cut down on the amount of food they waste, after keeping diaries monitoring everything they throw out.

Recycling sisters do it by the book

Published Friday 10th July 2009

A pair of artistic sisters have used their talents to encourage young bookworms across the city to recycle thanks to a Manchester City Council competition.

Pilot student clear-out scheme boosts recycling

Published Tuesday 7th July 2009

A pilot Manchester City Council scheme encouraging students to recycle their rubbish before leaving their homes has seen tonnes of waste being reused or recycled.

Recycling goes green this summer

Published Thursday 2nd July 2009

Thousands more residents will be able to recycle their garden waste this summer, as part of Manchester City Council’s latest recycling improvements.

Wonder-haul recycled to help world’s poorest

Published Tuesday 30th June 2009

Hundreds of bogus Oasis T-shirts seized outside this month’s Heaton Park gigs are to be given to some of the world’s poorest people as part of a Manchester City Council recycling drive.

Every bin needs a little TLC

Published Thursday 25th June 2009

Love your bin and bring it in – that’s the message being sent out to residents in Moss Side during a campaign to tackle littering, dumping and other environmental issues.

Low-carbon residents asked to come forward

Published Thursday 25th June 2009

Residents who want to develop green projects to make life better in their neighbourhoods whilst saving money can get advice and help at a Manchester City Council event next week.

Plastic recycling scheme hits the north

Published Wednesday 24th June 2009

Residents across north and east Manchester will be able to recycle plastic and cardboard at home as part of Manchester City Council’s plan to turn the city into the UK’s recycling capital.

Hulme supercampus plan considered

Published Tuesday 23rd June 2009

Plans for a £120 million super-campus in Hulme will be considered by Manchester City Council.

Youngsters learn about science of recycling

Published Tuesday 23rd June 2009

Youngsters were given a lesson in the science of recycling when they were visited by Manchester City Council officers.

Pledges mean prizes for city recyclers

Published Tuesday 23rd June 2009

Manchester shoppers will be offered tempting prizes in return for agreeing to recycle more, as part of a Manchester City Council campaign.

Monastery to hold first wedding in 20 years

Published Monday 22nd June 2009

On Saturday, (27 June 2009), The Monastery, Manchester will hold its first wedding in 20 years.

Volunteers go Gaga to clean up city

Published Friday 19th June 2009

Dozens of volunteers gave a new lease of life to a Wythenshawe green spot, and will celebrate by watching singer Lady Gaga at a free concert thanks to a Manchester City Council campaign.

Super recycler Oscar needs more bikes

Published Tuesday 16th June 2009

A Manchester City Council worker who has saved thousands of old bikes from the scrap heap is calling on residents to dig out their rusting cycles so he can give them good homes.

Cycling super slimmer promotes pedal power

Published Monday 15th June 2009

A man who believes cycling saved his life is encouraging others to get peddling as part of this year’s Bike Week, supported by Manchester City Council.

Manchester joins international low carbon group

Published Wednesday 10th June 2009

Manchester has joined forces with cities across the world, after Manchester City Council agreed to sign an international pledge to take action on climate change.

Winning ideas announced for world’s first user-generated event

Published Tuesday 9th June 2009

On Saturday 20th June the world’s first user-generated event will take place in Ancoats, east Manchester where people are invited to come along and take part in a series of flash-mob style activities.

Tree-mendous athletes urged to come forward

Published Tuesday 9th June 2009

A mini race track will be set up in Manchester city centre to encourage tree-athletes to take part in an event aimed at planting trees around the city.

Fans urged – slide away from street vendors

Published Tuesday 2nd June 2009

Oasis fans going to this weekend’s concerts are being urged to watch out for traders selling merchandise outside the venue, as the items are likely to be counterfeit.

Len looks through the lens at east Manchester’s transformation

Published Monday 1st June 2009

On 12 June 2009 an exhibition called ‘East 1 to 10’ will open in east Manchester, showcasing the work of award-winning Manchester photographer, Len Grant.

Transport plans boost for Wythenshawe

Published Thursday 28th May 2009

The £1.5bn transport master plan announced for Greater Manchester has signalled a tremendous boost to the regeneration of Wythenshawe.

Kathryn’s tips cut bills and waste

Published Thursday 28th May 2009

An Openshaw family has produced a list of tips to help residents save money and cut down on the amount of food they throw out.

Co-operative Group unveils vision for city gateway

Published Wednesday 27th May 2009

A vision to transform the northern part of Manchester's city centre, securing the city's place as a 21st century leader in sustainable development, has been endorsed by Manchester City Council.

Gardeners urged to show pride in city

Published Wednesday 27th May 2009

Green-fingered residents across Manchester are being urged to show pride in their neighbourhoods this summer by entering Manchester City Council’s gardening competition.

Customer choice for thousands of recyclers

Published Wednesday 27th May 2009

Thousands of south Manchester residents who currently put their recycling into a kerbside box are being given the choice of a range of new collection services.

Firms surveyed over UK’s first smart energy district

Published Wednesday 27th May 2009

Companies are being asked whether they want to see the UK’s first smart metered business district set up in the Northern Quarter, as part of an energy-cutting scheme supported by the City Council.

Litter picking youngsters treat Rusholme with respect

Published Friday 22nd May 2009

Pupils from St James' school have been doing their bit to spruce up Rusholme as part of a two-week clean up and enforcement operation in the area.

Hanging gardens of Manchester boost nature

Published Thursday 21st May 2009

Green spaces are appearing above residents’ heads as roofs across the city are being transformed into havens for wildlife thanks to a Manchester City Council campaign.

Youngsters tell motorists - please park elsewhere

Published Monday 18th May 2009

A school which has spent years trying to stop selfish motorists putting children’s lives at risk by parking dangerously has asked Manchester City Council to step in.

Hundreds see visions for Brunswick’s £100 million future

Published Friday 15th May 2009

Over 300 people attended exhibitions to see the two visions for the future of the Brunswick area in Ardwick, Manchester.

Spring clean for Manchester's streets and green spaces

Published Thursday 14th May 2009

Manchester’s streets and green spaces are set to receive a major spring clean after Manchester City Council agreed to fund a wide range of new environmental projects across the city.

Ideas wanted for world’s first user-generated event

Published Friday 8th May 2009

Mancunians are invited to come up with inspirational ideas for the world’s first user-generated day of events on Saturday 20 June in Ancoats in east Manchester.

New bus rules beat commuter blues

Published Thursday 7th May 2009

Commuters who have been frustrated by congestion in the Northern Quarter of Manchester can now be assured that their journeys will be safer, quicker and more enjoyable.

Youngsters muck in to learn about composting

Published Wednesday 6th May 2009

Youngsters will get their hands dirty this week as members of Manchester City Council’s recycling team teach them about the benefits of home composting.

Real nappies trial celebrates fifth birthday

Published Wednesday 29th April 2009

Manchester City Council is celebrating the fifth birthday of its real nappies scheme.

Warm welcome for frozen food store in old Woolworths

Published Tuesday 28th April 2009

Moves to turn the former Woolworths store in Northenden into a frozen food shop have received a warm welcome.

Pedlars Bill to go before MPs

Published Friday 24th April 2009

A new Bill aimed at kicking illegal traders off Manchester’s streets will now go before a select committee of MPs, after Manchester City Council cleared a major hurdle in the House of Commons.

Node news is good news for recycling

Published Thursday 23rd April 2009

Recycling will be made easier for people who live in or visit the city centre thanks to Manchester’s first on-street recycling site, due to be opened this week.

Forget dragons – residents urged to fight litter

Published Tuesday 21st April 2009

St George will be challenging anyone who lives, works and shops in Manchester city centre to show their pride in the city by keeping the streets clean.

Top chef stops food going to pot

Published Tuesday 21st April 2009

A celebrity chef will serve up top tips on turning leftovers into tasty meals at the launch of a food waste campaign backed by Manchester City Council.

Landfill monster is wheelie good idea

Published Tuesday 14th April 2009

Youngsters from a Chorlton school created a fearsome beast to raise awareness of the importance of recycling, thanks to a Manchester City Council campaign.

New £640m deal means Manchester recycling boost

Published Tuesday 14th April 2009

Manchester is set to receive state-of-the-art recycling facilities capable of generating green energy, thanks to a new £640m deal.

Junior Lewis Hamiltons to smash record

Published Tuesday 7th April 2009

Youngsters are being invited to smash all records when they turn trash into speed this Easter weekend as part of a Manchester City Council recycling drive.

Chance to see vision of your area’s future

Published Tuesday 7th April 2009

If you’re interested in seeing how the area where you live or work could develop over the next 15 years, hop on the exhibition bus that’s going on a tour of the city.

Don’t shell out on Easter recycling

Published Tuesday 7th April 2009

Residents will be able to tuck into Easter eggs without worrying about how to recycle the packaging this year, thanks to a new service introduced by Manchester City Council.

Medlock Valley gets two regeneration awards

Published Monday 6th April 2009

A £2 million project to transform the Medlock Valley in east Manchester has received two regeneration awards.

Students start campaign for cleaner Withington

Published Friday 3rd April 2009

A group of students who are leading a fight to improve the environment got their campaign off to a flying start by picking litter and planting herbs on their neighbouring streets.

Put your best foot forward at www.walkit.com

Published Thursday 2nd April 2009

With spring in the air it’s time to put a spring in your step as a new walking route planner is launched in Manchester.

BBC helps spread recycling message

Published Tuesday 31st March 2009

Youngsters will pit their wits against adults in an effort to help more children recycle, thanks to a joint effort between Manchester City Council and the BBC.

High five for city’s community guardians

Published Monday 30th March 2009

Real-life heroes have been praised for years of caring for their neighbourhoods, as Manchester City Council’s community guardian scheme celebrated its fifth anniversary.

Essential work on Moston Lane to begin

Published Tuesday 24th March 2009

As part of United Utilities water main programme an agreement has been reached with the Council to begin work to replace fresh water pipes on Moston Lane on Sat March 28 lasting for approx six weeks.

Improved crossings for visually impaired pedestrians

Published Tuesday 24th March 2009

Manchester City Council is taking part in research that should make it easier for vision impaired pedestrians to cross roads by improving facilities at signalised junctions and crossings.

Portable living room hits Manchester

Published Friday 20th March 2009

A portable living room is about to embark on a tour of Manchester’s streets, as part of a City Council campaign to save furniture from landfill sites.

Make a meal of your food waste

Published Wednesday 18th March 2009

Residents are being invited to win a meal at a top Manchester restaurant by keeping a diary of how much food they throw away, as part of a Manchester City Council scheme to reduce waste.

Free network event for east Manchester businesses

Published Wednesday 18th March 2009

A free event organised by New East Manchester aimed at helping businesses based in east Manchester survive the recession is to be held on Thursday 26 March.

90 people ran for fun in Clayton Vale in east Manchester

Published Wednesday 18th March 2009

Urban regeneration company New East Manchester and national sports development charity StreetGames hosted a special family fun run on Sunday 15th March at Clayton Vale Centre.

Eastserve takes a step forward with Symera signing

Published Tuesday 17th March 2009

Beverley Hughes MP, Minister for the North West visited east Manchester today to witness New East Manchester and Manchester City Council sign up an internet service provider, Symera Technologies.

Computers seized in net raid

Published Monday 9th March 2009

Manchester City Council trading standards officers seized computers after raiding the alleged base of a website which enabled customers to watch and download illegal copies of movies.

Gold award for Manchester’s green standards

Published Friday 6th March 2009

Manchester City Council has won a top property industry award for its work in encouraging environmentally-friendly development.

Homeless people help restore historic woodland

Published Friday 6th March 2009

A run-down area of woodland has been returned to its former glory, after Manchester City Council worked with volunteers from a homeless centre.

The future's green for recycled phones

Published Thursday 5th March 2009

Spring is in the air, and it’s time to head into the attic and clear those boxes that have been gathering dust for months.

Solicitors’ firm courts recycling success

Published Thursday 26th February 2009

A solicitors’ firm has won a year’s free recycling contract as part of a Manchester City Council scheme aimed at helping more businesses divert their waste from landfill.

Boost for transformation of Miles Platting

Published Wednesday 18th February 2009

Work on transforming the Miles Platting area of east Manchester has been given a boost with the approval of the compulsory of purchase of land and buildings.

Tree recycling boost for donkeys

Published Tuesday 10th February 2009

Donkeys are the surprising beneficiaries of a city wide boost in Christmas tree recycling.

Southern comfort for plastic recycling scheme

Published Tuesday 10th February 2009

A scheme allowing every household in south Manchester to recycle plastic and cardboard is being introduced early - following the success of a Manchester City Council trial.

Built in Quality Awards 2009

Published Monday 2nd February 2009

Manchester City Council has unveiled the winners of the prestigious Built in Quality Awards for 2009. The award scheme recognises quality building construction in Manchester.

Residents urged to fight scam artists

Published Friday 30th January 2009

Manchester City Council is joining North West MEP Arlene McCarthy to urge residents and businesses to take part in a ‘scamnesty’ campaign as part of the fight against con artists.

Solar-powered car leads drive to green future

Published Tuesday 27th January 2009

A green car powered by sunlight will soon be on the city’s streets, thanks to an environmental drive by Manchester City Council.

Manchester’s call to action on climate change

Published Wednesday 14th January 2009

Manchester City Council has vowed to reduce its carbon emissions by a third – the equivalent of driving an average new car more than 3.4 billion miles.

Fantastic plastic recycling scheme goes city-wide

Published Wednesday 14th January 2009

Manchester City Council has made a new year’s resolution to enable every household in the city to recycle plastic and cardboard, after the success of a trial scheme.

New Year cheers as millions pour into east Manchester

Published Friday 9th January 2009

Hundreds of millions of pounds being invested in east Manchester will see major projects starting during 2009 despite the downturn in the national economy.

Pupils get lion's share of recycling prizes

Published Friday 9th January 2009

Star pupils proved they had the courage of a lion when they helped Manchester City Council smash a recycling record.

Winter revamp for cemeteries

Published Monday 22nd December 2008

Over the last eight weeks, Manchester City Council’s cemeteries have undergone one of their biggest ever grounds maintenance improvement projects.

Giving priceless gifts in Wythenshawe

Published Thursday 18th December 2008

Eight members of the Wythenshawe District Youth Forum (Shawe Thing) aged 12 to 16 years, will visit the Starlight Ward to hand out board games to the children spending Christmas in hospital.

Over sixties step up a gear

Published Tuesday 16th December 2008

Drivers over the age of 60 have just experienced their own version of Top Gear.

We’re dreaming of a green Christmas

Published Tuesday 16th December 2008

Manchester Christmas Markets are going green.

Record of success in east Manchester

Published Wednesday 10th December 2008

Hundreds of people with new jobs, better school exam results and some landmark physical developments are just some of the achievements by the urban regeneration company New East Manchester in 2007-8.

Fun and games at market’s Christmas Festival

Published Wednesday 3rd December 2008

Grey Mare Lane Market in Beswick, east Manchester, will be transformed into a Christmas Festival with music, fun and games on Saturday 13 December between 10am and 1pm.

25 start work as new temporary job scheme starts

Published Tuesday 2nd December 2008

25 previously unemployed people have started work under a new scheme, piloted by Manchester City South Partnership, in conjunction with Work Solutions’ social and ethical recruitment agency Aspire.

£1.2 million improvements for east Manchester shopping area

Published Wednesday 26th November 2008

Plans for £1.2 million improvements to a shopping area in Newton Heath are being finalised by New East Manchester.

New Community Orchard for Ashenhurst Common

Published Tuesday 25th November 2008

Residents around Ashenhurst Common, Higher Blackley, will be able to pick free, fresh fruit from their very own community orchard, which is to be planted on 9 December, following National Tree Week.

Strangeways Local Plan here we come

Published Thursday 20th November 2008

A plan to revitalise the Strangeways area, transforming it from an “back door” to the city centre into a dynamic gateway, has been approved.

Beauty spot recognised with special status

Published Thursday 20th November 2008

Wildlife and local residents are set to benefit after Manchester City Council gave special status to a popular beauty spot near Didsbury.

Thousands of items found at illegal warehouse

Published Friday 14th November 2008

Nearly 6,000 pieces of fake clothing worth around £300,000 were seized when Manchester City Council trading standards officers uncovered an illegal warehouse.

City Council gives go ahead for restoration to Mrs Gaskell’s house

Published Tuesday 11th November 2008

The house where novels including Cranford and Wives and Daughters were penned has been given the go ahead to receive a £2.5 million upgrade.

Food waste service provides another recycling boost

Published Wednesday 5th November 2008

Manchester is moving another step towards its goal of recycling all reusable materials, with a new scheme enabling thousands of residents to recycle food waste.

Pupils brighten up to stay safe

Published Friday 31st October 2008

Manchester primary school pupils will be brightening up this winter as part of a major road safety campaign.

Pedlars’ Bill receives huge support from MPs

Published Thursday 30th October 2008

A Manchester City Council Bill aimed at cracking down on illegal street traders has received overwhelming support from MPs in the House of Commons.

Gardening awards recognises city’s green-fingered talent

Published Tuesday 28th October 2008

Manchester residents who used their green-fingered skills to create colourful gardens across the city were recognised in a ceremony at Manchester Town Hall.

Let the feet do the talking

Published Friday 24th October 2008

Parents, staff and pupils at St Richard’s RC primary school in Longsight have all been taking to the streets this week as part of ‘Walk to School Month."

Chance to find out latest on West Gorton regeneration

Published Wednesday 22nd October 2008

Residents of West Gorton will have the chance to hear the latest news about the regeneration of the area at a public open day event next week.

Environment team helps residents save cash

Published Wednesday 22nd October 2008

Manchester City Council helped residents save cash - and help the environment - when they held a series of events to mark Energy Saving Week across the city.

City Council unveils plans to expand city centre south

Published Wednesday 22nd October 2008

Manchester City Council’s Executive has approved proposals to develop the Whitworth Street West area of the city centre.

Key city centre site to be transformed

Published Wednesday 22nd October 2008

Almost 3,000 jobs will be created over 10 years through the ambitious mixed-use transformation of a prominent site in Manchester city centre.

City’s recycling pledge is a UK first

Published Tuesday 21st October 2008

Manchester motorists will be the first in the UK to benefit from a pledge that will see recycling used to reduce road works and protect the environment.

Create Local Colour In Cheetham

Published Monday 13th October 2008

Cheetham residents are invited to participate in a community bulb planting event on Saturday 18th October, bringing colour into the neighbourhood next spring.

Manchester is Blooming Marvellous

Published Thursday 9th October 2008

The outstanding efforts of green-fingered Manchester residents have been recognised this week, as local groups have won 31 Neighbourhood Awards at North West Britain In Bloom 2008.

Green roof gives food lovers a taste of the future

Published Friday 3rd October 2008

Delicious healthy vegetables can be grown in the most unlikely places – even above your head. That’s the message from a Manchester City Council project which is about to go on display to food lovers.

CBeebies presenter leads Tree Party festivities

Published Wednesday 1st October 2008

CBeebies presenter Sidney Sloane will be leading the festivities this weekend when tree-athletes do their bit to create a cleaner greener Manchester.

Proposals invited for land at Sportcity in east Manchester

Published Friday 26th September 2008

Urban regeneration company, New East Manchester (NEM) with Manchester City Council is seeking a development partner for the 38 acre former proposed regional casino site at Sportcity, east Manchester.

City's youngsters urged to recycle Yellow Pages

Published Thursday 18th September 2008

Pupils from Manchester schools are being challenged to beat the city’s Yellow Pages recycling record – with tempting cash prizes going to the winners.

Double whammy gives city autumn makeover

Published Tuesday 16th September 2008

Manchester City Council is teaming up with two environmental charities to give the city a September makeover.

Counterfeit DVD seizure one of UK's biggest

Published Tuesday 16th September 2008

Around half a million counterfeit DVDs have been seized by Manchester City Council trading standards officers during a raid on a suspected distribution centre.

Dog warden service collars top award

Published Monday 15th September 2008

Manchester City Council’s dog warden service is leading the way, after being given a prestigious award from animal charity RSPCA.

Recycling revolution to hit Manchester

Published Wednesday 10th September 2008

Manchester City Council has agreed a package of measures to transform its recycling service, turning the city into the UK's recycling capital.

Businesses asked to nurture green shoots

Published Monday 8th September 2008

Companies are being asked to demonstrate their commitment to the environment by entering a corporate team in the 2008 Manchester Tree-Athlon.

Still time to shape plan

Published Tuesday 12th August 2008

Residents and businesses in a large part of Wythenshawe are being reminded that there is still time to have their views heard on ambitious plans for the area.

Have a whale of a time with Yellow Pages recycling

Published Tuesday 12th August 2008

Manchester City Council is calling on residents to help set a new record for recycling Yellow Pages.

Medal victory for city's Tatton Park gardens

Published Friday 25th July 2008

Gardens created by Manchester residents have won the city three medals at this year’s RHS Tatton Park Flower Show.

NCP Manchester backs Heaton Park Tree-Athlon

Published Thursday 24th July 2008

With the support of NCP Manchester car parks and Manchester City Council, international charity Trees for Cities brings a new event to Manchester, the Tree-Athlon, and a 5K run.

Gorton residents take on DIY clean-up challenge

Published Tuesday 22nd July 2008

Residents in Gorton South are being offered non-toxic kits to help them keep their community free from graffiti.

Cloister gardens restoration complete

Published Tuesday 22nd July 2008

Restoration of the cloister gardens at Gorton Monastery, east Manchester, is now complete.

Hive to create a buzz

Published Friday 11th July 2008

Manchester City Council has agreed to invest in a Northern Quarter regeneration scheme designed to attract creative industries.

Council makes a refreshing change

Published Wednesday 9th July 2008

Manchester City Council is planning to replace bottled water with tap water at all of its buildings, where possible, before the end of next year.

Thousands to recycle plastic and cardboard

Published Wednesday 2nd July 2008

Thousands of South Manchester and Wythenshawe residents will be able to recycle plastic bottles and cardboard thanks to a trial service being launched by Manchester City Council.

Teachers urged to use parks as classrooms

Published Friday 27th June 2008

Teachers from schools across Manchester were shown how to use the city's parks and green spaces as classrooms at an event organised by Manchester City Council.

New chair for off-licence forum

Published Thursday 26th June 2008

A group promoting responsible alcohol sales and combating alcohol abuse has got a new chairman.

A vision for West Wythenshawe

Published Tuesday 24th June 2008

Residents and businesses in West Wythenshawe are being given the chance to help shape ambitious plans for the area.

Dog owners urged to pick up the poop

Published Friday 20th June 2008

Manchester's dog owners are being urged to keep the city's public places clean this summer by making sure they pick up the poop.

Stop means stop!

Published Thursday 19th June 2008

Careless and impatient drivers are putting children's lives at risk by refusing to stop at school crossing patrols.

Chorlton woman wins £500 for speaking her mind

Published Wednesday 4th June 2008

It's not every day you're thanked for letting people know what you think, but that's exactly what happened to a Chorlton woman when she responded to Manchester City Council's recycling consultation.

Human trees urge green athletes to come forward

Published Wednesday 4th June 2008

Tree-athletes are being urged to come forward to take part in a new event raising money to plant trees in and around Manchester.

'Just one more thing' recycling call hits Manchester

Published Tuesday 3rd June 2008

Mancunians are being urged to recycle just one more thing as a travelling roadshow sets off around the city.

Chancellor sees New East Manchester transformation

Published Monday 2nd June 2008

Chancellor Alistair Darling will today (Monday 2 June 2008) see projects that are bringing new life to east Manchester.

Chorlton greens up for 100 Days and beyond

Published Tuesday 27th May 2008

Chorlton residents and schoolchildren have exceeded themselves in this year's100 Days campaign to create a cleaner, greener city.

Youngsters help end 100 Days campaign

Published Tuesday 27th May 2008

A recycled fashion show and a special version of Dragons' Den helped Manchester youngsters bring this year's 100 Days campaign to a successful end.

100 Days turns grot spots into great spots

Published Friday 23rd May 2008

Five years since Manchester City Council first launched the 100 days campaign, two grot spots have been transformed into great spots.

Residents invited to lift the lid on recycling

Published Monday 19th May 2008

Eighty nine percent of Manchester residents are keen to do their bit for the environment and recycle more of their household rubbish.

Trading Standards award for city council employee

Published Monday 12th May 2008

A Manchester City Council trading standards officer has been given a prestigious national award for her work cracking down on shops selling counterfeit goods.

Licensing restrictions imposed on Hulme bar

Published Friday 9th May 2008

A bar has been ordered to cut its opening hours after complaints from residents about noise levels and concerns about the way the premises were being run.

Call to cut down on food waste

Published Friday 9th May 2008

Manchester City Council recycling officers are encouraging residents to cut down on the amount of food they throw away.

Work starts on £16m new Greggs bakery in east Manchester

Published Wednesday 7th May 2008

Work has started on a new £16 million bakery for Greggs, the region’s leading bakery retailer, safeguarding over 300 jobs.

Residents urged to use home composting bins

Published Tuesday 6th May 2008

Shoppers will have to look twice next week when members of Manchester City Council's recycling team will be based in Piccadilly Gardens dressed in compost bin outfits.

Launch of 2008 Manchester in Bloom

Published Tuesday 6th May 2008

Manchester City Council is calling on communities across the city to make sure 2008's Manchester in Bloom event is an even bigger success than last year.

Pupils visit green roof

Published Tuesday 6th May 2008

Primary school youngsters will get a bird's - and bug's - eye view of Manchester when they visit a garden created above the city's streets.

Summer gardening competition for green-fingered tenants

Published Tuesday 6th May 2008

Manchester's green-fingered residents are being invited to show off their skills in a city-wide gardening competition.

Man jailed over adult film shops

Published Tuesday 29th April 2008

A man has been sent to jail for running two adult film shops without a licence.

Outdoor living room tours city

Published Monday 28th April 2008

A portable living room is moving around Manchester as part of a campaign urging residents to reuse their old furniture instead of sending it to the tip.

Paperboys launch Own Your Streets Day

Published Thursday 24th April 2008

Big businesses have put their weight behind an event calling on everyone who lives, works or shops in the city centre to improve the streets.

Beswick regeneration ‘Most Considerate Site’ in the UK

Published Tuesday 22nd April 2008

A construction project in Beswick has been named the UK’s “Most Considerate Site" out of 6,500 eligible sites at the 2008 National Considerate Constructors Scheme Awards.

Volunteers wanted for clean-up of Chorlton Ees

Published Tuesday 22nd April 2008

Volunteers are being invited to help on a litter picking event on Chorlton Ees and Ivy Green this weekend, as part of Manchester City Council's 100 Days campaign.

Everyday rubbish recycled in Sportcity challenge

Published Friday 18th April 2008

Everyday rubbish has been transformed into useful items, including CD racks and can openers, with help of east Manchester students and Earl Barrett, ex MCFC player and England international.

Gorton Monastery’s Cloister Gardens returned to former glory

Published Friday 18th April 2008

The first stage of the restoration of the cloister gardens at The Monastery in Gorton, east Manchester has been completed.

Manchester's cans turned into trees for Africa

Published Thursday 17th April 2008

Dozens of trees are being planted in a deforested African nation - because of drinks cans collected by Manchester residents.

Youngster bags prizes for winning design

Published Wednesday 16th April 2008

A Chorlton High School pupil has won a competition to design an eco-friendly reusable bag.

Waste-busting researchers seek volunteers

Published Tuesday 15th April 2008

Researchers hoping to reduce the amount of rubbish sent to landfill sites from Manchester households are looking for volunteers to collect packaging waste for two weeks.

Rapping robot spreads recycling message

Published Tuesday 15th April 2008

Youngsters across the city will come face to face with a rapping robot, which will tell them how to exterminate waste.

Team hands out energy saving bulbs

Published Friday 11th April 2008

An environmental team is handing out free energy efficient light bulbs to Manchester residents.

Woodland gains wildlife protection

Published Wednesday 9th April 2008

A stretch of Manchester woodland teeming with wildlife has been given special status to help protect it.

100 Days campaign hits halfway point

Published Monday 7th April 2008

Manchester City Council's 100 Days campaign has been hailed a huge success as it reaches its halfway point.

More than 800 old vehicles recycled

Published Friday 4th April 2008

More than 800 vehicles were removed from Manchester streets last year - and almost every ounce of material from the vehicles was recycled.

Recycling is an art form

Published Friday 4th April 2008

From turning discarded packaging into robot sculptures to making jewellery out of old belts, Manchester artists are finding creative ways to recycle waste materials.

Litter lout blames girlfriend's ex

Published Wednesday 2nd April 2008

A man who gave the name and address of his girlfriend's ex-partner after being caught littering has been tracked down and ordered to pay a total of £415.

Junk your junk mail

Published Wednesday 2nd April 2008

Manchester residents are being advised to save themselves headaches when the post arrives - and cut down on waste - by redirecting junk mail away from their homes.

Recycling push for town hall staff

Published Wednesday 2nd April 2008

A huge drive to cut down on the amount of waste being sent to landfill sites from Manchester Town Hall is being launched this week.

Oscar's recycled cycle project hits 3,000 landmark

Published Thursday 27th March 2008

A Manchester City Council worker who restores scrapped bikes and gives them to the local community free of charge has reached a new landmark.

City road casualty toll plummets

Published Wednesday 26th March 2008

The number of children killed or seriously injured on Manchester’s roads has almost halved since the year 2000, new figures reveal.

Residents want to recycle more materials

Published Wednesday 26th March 2008

Early results from consultations suggest that Mancunians want to see new services to recycle materials ranging from plastics and cardboard to food and textiles, while many want recycling made simpler.