themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--The fraught politics behind ‘HS2 North’

The fraught politics behind ‘HS2 North’

One quality often attributed to Boris Johnson ’ s notorious chief adviser Dominic Cummings is the ability to play multi-dimensional chess - thinking several steps ahead , strategically playing many different agendas off against each other simultaneously .
That may well be the case , but in the first HS2 round of the tournament , this week he appears to have lost .
The Prime Minister announced on Tuesday that the controversial new line would indeed go ahead in full , despite a huge overspend and longstanding opposition from both Cummings and Number 10 ’ s transport adviser , Andrew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pieces are still being frantically shifted around the board .
And from here on in , the game gets a whole lot more serious for northern leaders , for the consensus required will now move from a theoretical wish-list to real-world trade-offs .
Number 10 ’ s decision to ‘ green light ’ the whole project - by no means the first time such an announcement has been declared - was certainly welcomed publicly by northern leaders and businesses on Tuesday .
The Northern Powerhouse Partnership , the lobby group set up by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he led while in the Treasury , was particularly vocal in its celebration , declaring it a ‘ vindication ’ for the north ’ s collective approach to ensuring the project didn ’ t get cut off at Birmingham .
As one senior figure elsewhere in the north says , the view is broadly that ‘ the battle has been won , if not the war ’ .
And indeed , on the face of it Boris Johnson has accepted all the key recommendations of the independent Oakervee review into HS2 .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legs - Crewe to Manchester and Birmingham to Leeds - in order to find efficiencies .
Government is adamant that this is neither a ‘ review ’ nor a ‘ pause ’ , particularly conscious of optics in the wake of being returned to power on the back of northern votes .
But to borrow a phrase from Jeremy Corbyn , there will certainly now be a period of reflection .
While northern leaders have publicly warned that the north must not have a shoddy version of the ‘ gold plated ’ southern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those spoken to by the M.E.N .
accept this process not only as an inevitability , but as an opportunity .
This , they hope , could be the route to finally combining the northern bit of HS2 with Northern Powerhouse Rail , the network of east-west high speed links that has been talked up by government , but hasn ’ t actually been signed off .
They want it all to be one project , while the Northern Powerhouse Partnership has been explicit in calling for it by delivered by the north @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Department for Transport .
“ The clowns who have got them into this mess , we shouldn ’ t assume they are going to be the same people who come up with the answers Boris is asking to be found for him , ” says one senior figure sympathetic to that argument , who concedes there are probably efficiencies to be found .
“ Would you trust the DfT to do anything right ?
Everything they ’ ve touched has been wrong.
” Nevertheless , getting that one giant rail project designed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for northern political consensus and for its ability to stop the government exerting divide and rule tactics .
There are certainly big question marks hanging over both elements of the scheme .
In the case of the northern stretch of HS2 , there are suspicions in many quarters that the eastern leg to Leeds could yet be dropped , not least because there were briefings to that effect in the autumn .
Even though transport secretary Grant Shapps has insisted both legs will be built , as one insider says , ‘ it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eastern leg was 100pc nailed on ’ .
This fear is heightened by the potential that the Manchester to Leeds stretch of Northern Powerhouse Rail - which Boris Johnson was notably quick to green light within days of entering Number 10 - could be treated as an alternative .
That would in effect mean Leeds would still be on the HS2 network , via the NPR extension from Manchester , but it would abandon South Yorkshire and the East Midlands .
There are also suspicions that this is quietly Greater Manchester ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commissioned a report by the consultancy Bechtel to draw up a new design for an underground station at Piccadilly , which would integrate HS2 and NPR together .
Its new proposal would do that so smoothly that some fear it could undermine the argument for the eastern leg of HS2 further down the line .
This tension was not helped at the weekend by the intervention of Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham , who told Sky News that while he still wanted to see both HS2 and NPR built , perhaps NPR could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went down like a lead balloon among some northern figures and led a number to speculate privately that Burnham ’ s allies had been ‘ thrown under the bus ’ .
One scathingly described the comments as ‘ erratic behaviour ’ so soon before the government ’ s announcement , while another said that the ‘ symbolism ’ of the timing and the tone meant the mayor had ‘ tiptoed ’ into territory that could endanger the north ’ s collective line - which was that both schemes must be built .
Those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ successful , however .
They believe it helped soften Boris Johnson ’ s language around the review-but-not-a-review of the northern legs , resulting in a more positive outcome - including explicit talk of an ‘ integrated ’ network - than had been briefed before the weekend .
Meanwhile one Manchester figure suggests this is ‘ the nature of mayors ’ .
“ It ’ s the perennial question of who speaks for the north and how does the north build consensus , ” they say , pointing out that there is no expectation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past the entire northern collective .
“ Do you expect him to do what ’ s right for Greater Manchester , or do you expect him to build consensus with other places ?
“ I ’ m not sure any of us know.
” This gets to the heart of the political problem the north now faces , believes a senior insider elsewhere , who points out government is ‘ telling anyone who will listen ’ how keen it is for places to have elected mayors .
This , they muse , could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and rule in a region that has put on a pretty united front in recent years .
“ Once you get to the position where everyone has mayors , it ’ s a small step to competition , isn ’ t it ?
” they pose .
“ If you were mendacious in the Treasury , the way to ameliorate devolution is to give everyone devolution , so you have a lot of mayors fighting over money .
Nobody knows if that ’ s going to happen , but it all goes together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bit of a crossroads .
“ Are we really moving in a direction where this generates more accountability and autonomy in the north , or actually - in a way - the more mayors there are , the more bodies there are with ‘ north ’ in the title , are we in danger of circling back to a bunch of mayors fighting over money coming out of the Treasury ?
” That , they concede , is only one possible outcome .
But where a project like Northern Powerhouse Rail is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be on board when it ’ s just an idea ’ .
“ You ’ re going to be drawing lines on maps in the not too distant future , ” they point out of NPR .
“ That ’ s when it gets real and suddenly , it ’ s not controversy free.
” NPR , which is itself not as far down the line as the northern part of HS2 , could also face tough choices in the months ahead .
As yet it is only at the stage of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the proposal has not yet been laid bare .
Yorkshire leaders in particular want to see the initial Manchester to Leeds stretch dug directly through Bradford , creating a central station for a city that has fragmented rail connections .
This is the most expensive option and one that has been periodically dangled over the heads of northern leaders by government - if you want this , they have suggested , then Manchester can not have the station it wants at Piccadilly .
The approach from northern politicians so far has simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Yorkshire Post has reported at the weekend , the government had been poised to go out to consultation on a version of the Manchester to Leeds stretch that included options without central Bradford .
One insider blamed Transport for the North for itself drawing up a proposed wording that failed to mark Bradford as the preferred option , while government has blamed the north for failing to agree , not the first time ministers have taken that line .
Grant Shapps noted this week there would need to be trade offs .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he told the M.E.N .
on Tuesday , when asked about the underground station at Piccadilly , which was not explicitly mentioned by the Prime Minister in his statement .
`` We need to work with northern leaders to priorities what 's wanted and what is practical to deliver . ''
While leaders may eventually win that particular argument with government - and get not only an underground at Piccadilly but the Bradford station they so want - they may ultimately have to make a choice .
And if they don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there will be others .
As one transport insider says : “ There is a danger this turns into a bun fight .
I do worry that without that lead voice in it , you get these disparate voices about what ’ s important.
” There also remains speculation across the north about the function of Transport for the North , the regional body set up to lobby for and coordinate major infrastructure projects .
One senior insider describes it currently as ' a post box for the Department for Transport ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it will remain a problem or become the solution .
While some feel its purpose may come into doubt as more and more mayors get money , public platforms and strategic powers , others - including the Northern Powerhouse Partnership - feel that a beefed-up version could form the basis for delivering the entire project .
That will , again , require some serious collaborative working if the north is to avoid the DfT effectively running the show from London .
The risk going forward will be that the killer political instinct of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pick off parts of the region , pitting them against each other , while the bureaucratic instincts of civil servants will be to stifle northern proposals in unflattering cost benefit analyses .
Cummings may have lost the first round , but HS2 North is a multi-dimensional chess tournament that looks set to span this Parliament and beyond .

One quality often attributed to Boris Johnson’s notorious chief adviser Dominic Cummings is the ability to play multi-dimensional chess - thinking several steps ahead, strategically playing many different agendas off against each other simultaneously.
That may well be the case, but in the first HS2 round of the tournament, this week he appears to have lost. The Prime Minister announced on Tuesday that the controversial new line would indeed go ahead in full, despite a huge overspend and longstanding opposition from both Cummings and Number 10’s transport adviser, Andrew Giligan.
Even so, political chess pieces are still being frantically shifted around the board. And from here on in, the game gets a whole lot more serious for northern leaders, for the consensus required will now move from a theoretical wish-list to real-world trade-offs.
Number 10’s decision to ‘green light’ the whole project - by no means the first time such an announcement has been declared - was certainly welcomed publicly by northern leaders and businesses on Tuesday. The Northern Powerhouse Partnership, the lobby group set up by George Osborne to continue pushing the agenda he led while in the Treasury, was particularly vocal in its celebration, declaring it a ‘vindication’ for the north’s collective approach to ensuring the project didn’t get cut off at Birmingham.
As one senior figure elsewhere in the north says, the view is broadly that ‘the battle has been won, if not the war’.
(Image: PA)
And indeed, on the face of it Boris Johnson has accepted all the key recommendations of the independent Oakervee review into HS2. That includes a six-month look at the northern legs - Crewe to Manchester and Birmingham to Leeds - in order to find efficiencies. Government is adamant that this is neither a ‘review’ nor a ‘pause’, particularly conscious of optics in the wake of being returned to power on the back of northern votes. But to borrow a phrase from Jeremy Corbyn, there will certainly now be a period of reflection.
While northern leaders have publicly warned that the north must not have a shoddy version of the ‘gold plated’ southern stretch as a result, in private those spoken to by the M.E.N. accept this process not only as an inevitability, but as an opportunity.
This, they hope, could be the route to finally combining the northern bit of HS2 with Northern Powerhouse Rail, the network of east-west high speed links that has been talked up by government, but hasn’t actually been signed off. They want it all to be one project, while the Northern Powerhouse Partnership has been explicit in calling for it by delivered by the north itself, through a body separate to the Department for Transport.
“The clowns who have got them into this mess, we shouldn’t assume they are going to be the same people who come up with the answers Boris is asking to be found for him,” says one senior figure sympathetic to that argument, who concedes there are probably efficiencies to be found.
(Image: Getty Images)
“Would you trust the DfT to do anything right? Everything they’ve touched has been wrong.”
Nevertheless, getting that one giant rail project designed and delivered will be the real test for northern political consensus and for its ability to stop the government exerting divide and rule tactics.
There are certainly big question marks hanging over both elements of the scheme.
In the case of the northern stretch of HS2, there are suspicions in many quarters that the eastern leg to Leeds could yet be dropped, not least because there were briefings to that effect in the autumn. Even though transport secretary Grant Shapps has insisted both legs will be built, as one insider says, ‘it would be naive to assume that the eastern leg was 100pc nailed on’.
This fear is heightened by the potential that the Manchester to Leeds stretch of Northern Powerhouse Rail - which Boris Johnson was notably quick to green light within days of entering Number 10 - could be treated as an alternative. That would in effect mean Leeds would still be on the HS2 network, via the NPR extension from Manchester, but it would abandon South Yorkshire and the East Midlands.
There are also suspicions that this is quietly Greater Manchester’s current game. The city council recently commissioned a report by the consultancy Bechtel to draw up a new design for an underground station at Piccadilly, which would integrate HS2 and NPR together. Its new proposal would do that so smoothly that some fear it could undermine the argument for the eastern leg of HS2 further down the line.
(Image: Mark Waugh)
This tension was not helped at the weekend by the intervention of Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, who told Sky News that while he still wanted to see both HS2 and NPR built, perhaps NPR could be ‘prioritised’ first.
This went down like a lead balloon among some northern figures and led a number to speculate privately that Burnham’s allies had been ‘thrown under the bus’. One scathingly described the comments as ‘erratic behaviour’ so soon before the government’s announcement, while another said that the ‘symbolism’ of the timing and the tone meant the mayor had ‘tiptoed’ into territory that could endanger the north’s collective line - which was that both schemes must be built.
Those close to Burnham view the intervention as successful, however. They believe it helped soften Boris Johnson’s language around the review-but-not-a-review of the northern legs, resulting in a more positive outcome - including explicit talk of an ‘integrated’ network - than had been briefed before the weekend.
Meanwhile one Manchester figure suggests this is ‘the nature of mayors’.
“It’s the perennial question of who speaks for the north and how does the north build consensus,” they say, pointing out that there is no expectation for individual mayors to run their narratives past the entire northern collective.
(Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
“Do you expect him to do what’s right for Greater Manchester, or do you expect him to build consensus with other places?
“I’m not sure any of us know.”
This gets to the heart of the political problem the north now faces, believes a senior insider elsewhere, who points out government is ‘telling anyone who will listen’ how keen it is for places to have elected mayors. This, they muse, could ultimately help with any tactic to divide and rule in a region that has put on a pretty united front in recent years.
“Once you get to the position where everyone has mayors, it’s a small step to competition, isn’t it?” they pose.
“If you were mendacious in the Treasury, the way to ameliorate devolution is to give everyone devolution, so you have a lot of mayors fighting over money. Nobody knows if that’s going to happen, but it all goes together to feel like we’re at a bit of a crossroads.
“Are we really moving in a direction where this generates more accountability and autonomy in the north, or actually - in a way - the more mayors there are, the more bodies there are with ‘north’ in the title, are we in danger of circling back to a bunch of mayors fighting over money coming out of the Treasury?”
That, they concede, is only one possible outcome. But where a project like Northern Powerhouse Rail is concerned, ‘it’s easier to be on board when it’s just an idea’.
(Image: Contributed)
“You’re going to be drawing lines on maps in the not too distant future,” they point out of NPR.
“That’s when it gets real and suddenly, it’s not controversy free.”
NPR, which is itself not as far down the line as the northern part of HS2, could also face tough choices in the months ahead.
As yet it is only at the stage of an outline business case and the meat of the proposal has not yet been laid bare.
Yorkshire leaders in particular want to see the initial Manchester to Leeds stretch dug directly through Bradford, creating a central station for a city that has fragmented rail connections. This is the most expensive option and one that has been periodically dangled over the heads of northern leaders by government - if you want this, they have suggested, then Manchester cannot have the station it wants at Piccadilly.
The approach from northern politicians so far has simply been to demand both.
But as the Yorkshire Post has reported at the weekend, the government had been poised to go out to consultation on a version of the Manchester to Leeds stretch that included options without central Bradford.
One insider blamed Transport for the North for itself drawing up a proposed wording that failed to mark Bradford as the preferred option, while government has blamed the north for failing to agree, not the first time ministers have taken that line.
(Image: PA)
Grant Shapps noted this week there would need to be trade offs.
"Different cities will want different things," he told the M.E.N. on Tuesday, when asked about the underground station at Piccadilly, which was not explicitly mentioned by the Prime Minister in his statement.
"We need to work with northern leaders to priorities what's wanted and what is practical to deliver."
While leaders may eventually win that particular argument with government - and get not only an underground at Piccadilly but the Bradford station they so want - they may ultimately have to make a choice. And if they don’t face a choice on that, there will be others.
As one transport insider says: “There is a danger this turns into a bun fight. I do worry that without that lead voice in it, you get these disparate voices about what’s important.”
There also remains speculation across the north about the function of Transport for the North, the regional body set up to lobby for and coordinate major infrastructure projects. One senior insider describes it currently as 'a post box for the Department for Transport', although opinion is divided about whether it will remain a problem or become the solution.
While some feel its purpose may come into doubt as more and more mayors get money, public platforms and strategic powers, others - including the Northern Powerhouse Partnership - feel that a beefed-up version could form the basis for delivering the entire project.
That will, again, require some serious collaborative working if the north is to avoid the DfT effectively running the show from London.
The risk going forward will be that the killer political instinct of political advisers hundreds of miles away will pick off parts of the region, pitting them against each other, while the bureaucratic instincts of civil servants will be to stifle northern proposals in unflattering cost benefit analyses.
Cummings may have lost the first round, but HS2 North is a multi-dimensional chess tournament that looks set to span this Parliament and beyond.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--Manchester United receive update on James Maddison amid transfer interest

Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed the club are still in negotiations with Manchester United transfer target James Maddison over a new contract .
The MEN understands United are targeting at least three signings before the start of next season and Maddison is under consideration as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer continues with his rebuild of the club .
Third-placed Leicester are 14 points clear of United and look set to qualify for the Champions League but United are buoyed by the fact that Maddison is a boyhood Reds fan .
The MEN revealed at the start of January that Maddison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Rodgers confirmed negotiations are still ongoing prior to their game against Wolves on Friday .
`` The position is it ’ s still the same as where it ’ s at , '' he said .
`` The club and his representatives are still negotiating and hopefully they ’ ll find a conclusion . ''
Maddison 's current deal at the King Power Stadium runs until 2023 .
Rodgers said last month that the 23-year-old would not be sold and that he hoped to see the England international remain at Leicester for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boss said : `` There 's no pressure to sell and no need to sell .
`` James is a very talented player and he will be here in January and beyond .
`` He 's a player we 're keen to remain here and help us on this journey over the next years .
James and his representatives are speaking with the club and these things take time . ''

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Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed the club are still in negotiations with Manchester United transfer target James Maddison over a new contract.
The MEN understands United are targeting at least three signings before the start of next season and Maddison is under consideration as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer continues with his rebuild of the club.
Third-placed Leicester are 14 points clear of United and look set to qualify for the Champions League but United are buoyed by the fact that Maddison is a boyhood Reds fan.
The MEN revealed at the start of January that Maddison is considering signing a new Leicester contract and Rodgers confirmed negotiations are still ongoing prior to their game against Wolves on Friday.
"The position is it’s still the same as where it’s at," he said. "The club and his representatives are still negotiating and hopefully they’ll find a conclusion."
Maddison's current deal at the King Power Stadium runs until 2023.
Rodgers said last month that the 23-year-old would not be sold and that he hoped to see the England international remain at Leicester for a number of years.
The ex-Liverpool boss said: "There's no pressure to sell and no need to sell.
"James is a very talented player and he will be here in January and beyond.
"He's a player we're keen to remain here and help us on this journey over the next years. James and his representatives are speaking with the club and these things take time."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--Fury after new sign tells owners to keep dogs on lead in popular park...but it was a big error

Residents were left furious after a south Manchester park popular with dog-walkers received new signs warning of penalties .
Last week , walkers at Highfield Park in Levenshulme spotted a sign warning that people must 'keep their dog on a lead at all times ' .
The Public Spaces Protection Order ( PSPO ) sign stated that anyone not abiding by the rules could face a fine of up to £1,000 .
Users of the park said they were left feeling outraged , especially as the park is popular with dog owners .
`` The only people who use that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one resident , who does not want to be named , told the Manchester Evening News .
`` I feel we have been targeted as the first of many in this area . ''
However , council officials have now confirmed to the M.E.N that the sign was put up in error .
`` The signs were installed in error by a contractor and will be removed , '' a spokesperson for Manchester Council said .
`` We apologise for any confusion or inconvenience caused . ''
Dog owners will not be required @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at all times - only when instructed to do so .
The new sign , when replaced , will state it is an offence to 'fail to put , and keep , your dog on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer . '
The 70-acre land , which locals say is one of the 'hidden gems of Levenshulme ' , was designated as a country park by the council in the 1970s .
Despite objections from residents , plans for redeveloping part of Highfield Country Park were passed @ @ @ @ @ @

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Residents were left furious after a south Manchester park popular with dog-walkers received new signs warning of penalties.
Last week, walkers at Highfield Park in Levenshulme spotted a sign warning that people must 'keep their dog on a lead at all times'.
The Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) sign stated that anyone not abiding by the rules could face a fine of up to £1,000.
Users of the park said they were left feeling outraged, especially as the park is popular with dog owners.
"The only people who use that park are the dog walkers," one resident, who does not want to be named, told the Manchester Evening News .
"I feel we have been targeted as the first of many in this area."
However, council officials have now confirmed to the M.E.N that the sign was put up in error.
"The signs were installed in error by a contractor and will be removed," a spokesperson for Manchester Council said.
"We apologise for any confusion or inconvenience caused."
Dog owners will not be required to keep their dogs on a lead at all times - only when instructed to do so.
The new sign, when replaced, will state it is an offence to 'fail to put, and keep, your dog on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer.'
The 70-acre land, which locals say is one of the 'hidden gems of Levenshulme', was designated as a country park by the council in the 1970s.
Despite objections from residents, plans for redeveloping part of Highfield Country Park were passed by the council in 2007.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--National Lottery results draw LIVE: Winning Lotto numbers for Wednesday February 12

We 've had turbulent weather these fast few days with Storm Ciara and now with Storm Dennis on the way .
But what better way to brighten up your Wednesday than by taking part in the National Lottery .
This evening 's game is a rollover from Saturday 's draw , which means there 's a whopping £5.1m jackpot on offer .
While the chances of winning are very slim , it could just be your lucky night .
Last month , the Lotto made 30 millionaires - but do you know what you would do if you were to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tonight would be truly life-changing .
It could be your ticket in making dreams become reality by starting your own business or buying your own house .
You could splash the cash on a luxury holiday or quit your job entirely to set up sticks abroad .
All you have to do to win big is match all six main numbers - but there is a chance you could still become a millionaire by matching five main numbers plus the Bonus ball .
Another way of becoming a millionaire is with the Millionaire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entry with each ticket .
You can buy tickets via the National Lottery website here up until 7.30pm on the day of the draw .

We've had turbulent weather these fast few days with Storm Ciara and now with Storm Dennis on the way.
But what better way to brighten up your Wednesday than by taking part in the National Lottery .
This evening's game is a rollover from Saturday's draw, which means there's a whopping £5.1m jackpot on offer.
While the chances of winning are very slim, it could just be your lucky night.
Last month, the Lotto made 30 millionaires - but do you know what you would do if you were to win?
The millions up for grabs tonight would be truly life-changing.
It could be your ticket in making dreams become reality by starting your own business or buying your own house.
You could splash the cash on a luxury holiday or quit your job entirely to set up sticks abroad.
All you have to do to win big is match all six main numbers - but there is a chance you could still become a millionaire by matching five main numbers plus the Bonus ball.
Another way of becoming a millionaire is with the Millionaire Maker code - where you get automatic entry with each ticket.
You can buy tickets via the National Lottery website here up until 7.30pm on the day of the draw .
Lottery Tickets cost £2 per line, and include a raffle Millionaire Maker entry code. Thunderball Tickets cost £1.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--How to have your say on what will happen in Manchester over next 15 years

Manchester residents , businesses and organisations are being asked to give their say on the future of the city as the town hall looks to refresh its local plan - the city ’ s long-term guidelines for development .
The council has launched an eight-week consultation in a bid to understand what locals want to see over the next 15 years .
‘ Key ’ priorities listed by the town hall include action on climate change , housing demand , transport infrastructure and how neighbourhoods can promote healthy lifestyles .
Manchester ’ s economy and city centre are also raised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responding .
This is the first major review of the city ’ s development plan since 2012 , and will take into account the Greater Manchester spatial framework , National Planning Policy Framework and the region ’ s new devolved planning powers .
You can read about and comment on the town hall ’ s online consultation page , view a hard copy in the Central Library , or call in at one of the council ’ s Local Plan events .
These are being held on : • Monday 17 February , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leisure Centre The public and businesses will be able to take part in further consultation opportunities throughout the process .
A draft plan is expected to be prepared by winter 2020/21 for public consultation .
A final plan will be published in summer/autumn of 2021 for a formal statutory consultation , ahead of submission to the Secretary of State .
Councillor Angeliki Stogia , the executive member for environment , planning and transport , said : “ Developing a new Local Plan is a vital process that will shape where new homes will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be created , what amenities are needed - such as schools and healthcare - and the transport infrastructure that connect the entire city .
“ This is a plan that will touch all of our lives in the next two decades , so we are keen to hear from as many people as possible about the issues they face - as well as potential options to improve them - and make sure everyone has a chance to shape our city .
So please have your say .
”

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Manchester residents, businesses and organisations are being asked to give their say on the future of the city as the town hall looks to refresh its local plan - the city’s long-term guidelines for development.
The council has launched an eight-week consultation in a bid to understand what locals want to see over the next 15 years.
‘Key’ priorities listed by the town hall include action on climate change, housing demand, transport infrastructure and how neighbourhoods can promote healthy lifestyles.
Manchester’s economy and city centre are also raised as issues for residents to consider when responding.
This is the first major review of the city’s development plan since 2012, and will take into account the Greater Manchester spatial framework, National Planning Policy Framework and the region’s new devolved planning powers.
You can read about and comment on the town hall’s online consultation page, view a hard copy in the Central Library, or call in at one of the council’s Local Plan events. These are being held on:
Monday 17 February, 3pm to 7pm at Withington Baths and Leisure Centre
Wednesday 19 February, 3pm to 7pm at Abraham Moss Centre
Monday 24 February, 3pm to 7pm at North City Library, Harpurhey
Wednesday 26 February, 3pm to 7pm at Wythenshawe Forum
Thursday 27 February, 12noon to 4.30pm at Inspire Centre, Levenshulme
Monday 2 March, 12noon to 6.30pm at Central Library
The public and businesses will be able to take part in further consultation opportunities throughout the process.
A draft plan is expected to be prepared by winter 2020/21 for public consultation.
A final plan will be published in summer/autumn of 2021 for a formal statutory consultation, ahead of submission to the Secretary of State.
Councillor Angeliki Stogia, the executive member for environment, planning and transport, said: “Developing a new Local Plan is a vital process that will shape where new homes will be built, where new employment opportunities will be created, what amenities are needed - such as schools and healthcare - and the transport infrastructure that connect the entire city.
“This is a plan that will touch all of our lives in the next two decades, so we are keen to hear from as many people as possible about the issues they face - as well as potential options to improve them - and make sure everyone has a chance to shape our city. So please have your say.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--Manchester United forward Alexis Sanchez backed for vital Inter Milan role

Inter Milan great Ivan Zamorano predicts Manchester United loanee Alexis Sanchez will have a 'vital role ' to play for the club this season .
The Chilean forward was out of action for three months between October and January due to an ankle injury but impressed at the weekend as Inter secured a derby win against AC Milan .
Victory for Antonio Conte 's side took them to the top of Serie A and Zamorano believes Sanchez will have a key role to play in the rest of their campaign .
`` I liked seeing Alexis against Milan , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was slowly getting back into shape and when he was in a good condition , he suffered an injury .
`` But he remains a great player .
It seems like he has taken important steps thanks to the faith from Conte .
`` In the Scudetto race , Alexis will be vital .
We have ( Romelu ) Lukaku and Lautaro ( Martinez ) , but he too can give something important to the team . ''
The weekend win was made sweeter by the fact Inter fought back from two goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Zamorano was also quick to praise Conte for the role he has played since arriving last summer .
He added : `` Conte has a special character .
He always gets something extra from his players .
`` I had a similarly great coach at Inter , [ Luigi ] Simoni was a very committed man .
`` When you play a second half so different from the first , it 's obvious that the coach has the necessary touch , not just the players .
Conte has given something extra to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ character of Inter . ''

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Inter Milan great Ivan Zamorano predicts Manchester United loanee Alexis Sanchez will have a 'vital role' to play for the club this season.
The Chilean forward was out of action for three months between October and January due to an ankle injury but impressed at the weekend as Inter secured a derby win against AC Milan.
Victory for Antonio Conte's side took them to the top of Serie A and Zamorano believes Sanchez will have a key role to play in the rest of their campaign.
"I liked seeing Alexis against Milan," he told Inter TV. "He was slowly getting back into shape and when he was in a good condition, he suffered an injury.
"But he remains a great player. It seems like he has taken important steps thanks to the faith from Conte.
"In the Scudetto race, Alexis will be vital. We have (Romelu) Lukaku and Lautaro (Martinez), but he too can give something important to the team."
The weekend win was made sweeter by the fact Inter fought back from two goals down to win the match 4-2, and Zamorano was also quick to praise Conte for the role he has played since arriving last summer.
He added: "Conte has a special character. He always gets something extra from his players.
"I had a similarly great coach at Inter, [Luigi] Simoni was a very committed man.
"When you play a second half so different from the first, it's obvious that the coach has the necessary touch, not just the players. Conte has given something extra to his team, they represent the historic character of Inter."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--Man City legend explains how Pep Guardiola made Sergio Aguero even better

Manchester City legend Franny Lee has explained how Sergio Aguero has improved his game under Pep Guardiola 's guidance .
The Argentine forward is enjoying another incredible campaign , hitting 21 goals in all competitions , including 16 in the league , becoming the Premier League 's leading overseas scorer .
Aguero has also eclipsed Alan Shearer 's record for the most Premier League hat-tricks and is fourth on the league 's all-time scoring list , just seven shy of Andy Cole .
While Aguero has always been a deadly goalscorer , Lee believes that the experienced forward has hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an all-round forward .
“ Sergio is simply remarkable .
When Pep Guardiola first came to the Club , he was an out and out goal scorer but now he is an out and out player who scores goals , '' he told the club 's official website .
“ Sergio has got everything .
He is a very good finisher , he is so clinical , he is the right size and build for a striker and he has got pace .
“ I thought he was possibly a bit on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shook him up and he has got him playing like a world class striker he is .
“ And if you look at the way he scores his goals they are not all simple .
He can also score exceptional goals and he ’ s an amazing talent .
“ Would I have liked to play alongside Sergio ?
No , as he we would have got all my goals !
Seriously , I would have absolutely relished playing with him .
“ I found that if I was playing with great players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it was with amazing players like Colin ( Bell ) , Neil ( Young ) and Mike ( Summerbee ) .
Sergio is something special too .
”

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Manchester City legend Franny Lee has explained how Sergio Aguero has improved his game under Pep Guardiola's guidance.
The Argentine forward is enjoying another incredible campaign, hitting 21 goals in all competitions, including 16 in the league, becoming the Premier League's leading overseas scorer.
Aguero has also eclipsed Alan Shearer's record for the most Premier League hat-tricks and is fourth on the league's all-time scoring list, just seven shy of Andy Cole.
While Aguero has always been a deadly goalscorer, Lee believes that the experienced forward has hit new heights under Guardiola by developing into an all-round forward.
“Sergio is simply remarkable. When Pep Guardiola first came to the Club, he was an out and out goal scorer but now he is an out and out player who scores goals," he told the club's official website.
“Sergio has got everything. He is a very good finisher, he is so clinical, he is the right size and build for a striker and he has got pace.
“I thought he was possibly a bit on the wane when Pep arrived but the manager shook him up and he has got him playing like a world class striker he is.
“And if you look at the way he scores his goals they are not all simple. He can also score exceptional goals and he’s an amazing talent.
“Would I have liked to play alongside Sergio? No, as he we would have got all my goals! Seriously, I would have absolutely relished playing with him.
“I found that if I was playing with great players it was made very easy for me as it was with amazing players like Colin (Bell), Neil (Young) and Mike (Summerbee). Sergio is something special too.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--Coronation Street is 10,000 episodes old...here's its greatest ever storylines

Coronation Street has made TV history with many of its storylines over 60 years .
As well as providing plenty of laughs , horror and drama , the soap has tackled many ground-breaking subjects that have raised awareness as well as helping save real lives .
As the much-loved , long-running soap reaches its 10,000th episode milestone and its 60th anniversary , we reflect on some of the storylines that have kept the nation entertained while making a huge impact .
Long may Corrie reign , and do n't forget to vote for your favourite storyline of all time in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tina , played by Michelle Keegan , fell to her death during a furious row with Rob Donovan in 2014 .
In a storyline that had the nation talking , Tina threatened to expose Rob for selling illegal stock with Tracy Barlow , so he pushed her off some scaffolding .
In a chilling twist Tina turned out to be alive , so he beat her to death with a piece of metal pipe lying nearby .
Her lover Peter Barlow ended up being found guilty of Tina 's murder at trial before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drug dealer Callum was murdered by an angry Kylie Platt with a wrench as he attacked Sarah Platt in a special live episode of the soap in September 2015 .
The flawless and dramatic scenes , which marked the 60th anniversary of ITV , saw Callum wrapped in a blanket and buried in a manhole under Gail 's granny flat until his body was accidentally unearthed by Fiz and Tyrone crashing into the Platt household the following year .
The grim reaper visited Weatherfield for the dramatic live tram crash scenes of 2010 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anniversary .
After being buried in the debris of the Joinery Bar with Peter Barlow and bar manager Nick Tilsley , Ashley Peacock left a heartbreaking message on his wife Claire ’ s phone telling her that he loved her before saving his friends .
The roof then gave way and poor Ashley was crushed to death .
Young mum Molly Dobbs was also killed by the tram crash .
When she realised she was dying she confessed to her neighbour Sally that she 'd been having an affair with her husband Kevin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blackpool following a campaign of harassment against his ex Rita Fairclough .
After tracking her down , he famously met his grisly end after being hit and killed by a Blackpool tram while chasing a distressed Rita across the tracks in December 1989 - and more than 27 million viewers tuned in to watch .
The storyline put Blackpool on the map , with a blue plaque to mark the filming location unveiled outside the Strand Hotel .
Brian Capron held Coronation Street fans captivated with his chilling portrayal of smirking killer Richard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death after she interrupted him trying to kill Emily Bishop - and humour was central to the story of 'Norman Bates with a briefcase . '
Brian told us : `` Richard was interrupted from trying to kill Emily on Christmas Day and it was funny at the same time with a little wink to the audience . ''
At the height of Hillman 's reign of terror on the street he drew in 20 million viewers with his slithering antics .
Dastardly Richard famously met a watery end when he drove his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ canal back in 2003 after murdering Maxine Peacock and beating babysitter Emily Bishop with a crowbar .
The ITV1 soap has had calls for the ultimate soap baddie to make a sensational return to Weatherfield after he went out with a dramatic ending in 2018 when he was stabbed through the chest by his nemesis Anna Windass during a horror siege at the bistro .
Viewers saw serial killer Phelan , who held a four year reign-of-terror over the cobbles , being zipped into a body bag , but they 're still hoping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led everyone to think he was dead for weeks after surviving a fall off a harbour side and hiding out in a B & B following a showdown with his wife Eileen .
`` I 'd start watching it again if Phelan had escaped the morgue , '' said one viewer .
In a storyline that horrified viewers while receiving plaudits for raising awareness of a harrowing subject , schoolgirl Bethany Platt was raped and groomed by evil Nathan Curtis and his sordid gang of friends .
The storyline unfolded over months and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the British Soap Awards in 2018 for Best Female Dramatic performance and Best Actress after receiving high praise for her portrayal of vulnerable Bethany .
The Samaritans recorded a surge in calls after the death of popular character Aidan Connor in 2018 .
`` Aidan 's storyline , the phone lines went crazy - it saved lives , '' said actor Shayne Ward .
Shayne and former producer Kate Oates worked closely with the Samaritans to handle the storyline of Aidan 's suicide respectfully after he secretly battled depression , and the storyline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Popular character David was drugged and raped in 2018 by mechanic Josh Tucker on a night out .
Soap bosses worked with charity Survivors Manchester supporting male survivors of sexual abuse and rape on the storyline .
In the month after it aired in March 2018 , Survivors had a 64 per cent increase in referrals - mainly self referral from male survivors - compared to the same time last year .
And Survivors Manchester and the National Male Survivors helpline saw a 1,700 per cent increase in male survivors contacting them .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ drama performance at the National Television Awards 2020 for her role as Sinead Osbourne .
Sinead 's death from cervical cancer saw some of the programme 's most harrowing scenes as it unflinchingly documented the young mum 's journey right up until the very end , working with the charity Mummy 's Star , dedicated to women and their families affected by cancer during pregnancy .
Want to talk about Corrie with other fans ?
Join our Coronation Street Fan Chat group on Facebook where you ’ ll also get updates , spoilers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your favourite Coronation Street storyline in our tool above .
Any ones that you think should be included ?
Let us know in the comments below .

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Corrie has made TV history with many of its storylines over 60 years.
As well as providing plenty of laughs, horror and drama, the soap has tackled many ground-breaking subjects that have raised awareness as well as helping to save real lives.
As the much-loved, long-running soap reaches its 60th anniversary, we reflect on some of the storylines that have kept the nation entertained while making a huge impact.
Long may Corrie reign, and don't forget to vote for your favourite storyline of all time in the poll below.
The death of Tina McIntyre
(Image: ITV Pictures)
Barmaid and babysitter Tina, played by Michelle Keegan, fell to her death during a furious row with Rob Donovan in 2014.
In a storyline that had the nation talking, Tina threatened to expose Rob for selling illegal stock with Tracy Barlow, so he pushed her off some scaffolding.
In a chilling twist Tina turned out to be alive, so he beat her to death with a piece of metal pipe lying nearby.
Her lover Peter Barlow ended up being found guilty of Tina's murder at trial before Rob eventually confessed to her murder.
The death of Callum Logan
(Image: Coronation Street/ITV Pictures)
Drug dealer Callum was murdered by an angry Kylie Platt with a wrench as he attacked Sarah Platt in a special live episode of the soap in September 2015.
The flawless and dramatic scenes, which marked the 60th anniversary of ITV, saw Callum wrapped in a blanket and buried in a manhole under Gail's granny flat until his body was accidentally unearthed by Fiz and Tyrone crashing into the Platt household the following year.
Tram crash
(Image: ITV)
The grim reaper visited Weatherfield for the dramatic live tram crash scenes of 2010 to mark the soap’s 50th anniversary.
After being buried in the debris of the Joinery Bar with Peter Barlow and bar manager Nick Tilsley, Ashley Peacock left a heartbreaking message on his wife Claire’s phone telling her that he loved her before saving his friends.
The roof then gave way and poor Ashley was crushed to death.
Young mum Molly Dobbs was also killed by the tram crash. When she realised she was dying she confessed to her neighbour Sally that she'd been having an affair with her husband Kevin. Shocker.
Alan Bradley killed by a tram
(Image: Granada/Coronation Street)
Bully Alan drove to Blackpool following a campaign of harassment against his ex Rita Fairclough.
After tracking her down, he famously met his grisly end after being hit and killed by a Blackpool tram while chasing a distressed Rita across the tracks in December 1989 - and more than 27 million viewers tuned in to watch.
The storyline put Blackpool on the map, with a blue plaque to mark the filming location unveiled outside the Strand Hotel.
Follow showbiz writer Katie Fitzpatrick on social media To follow Katie on Twitter click here . Or to like her Facebook page click here . Here's a link to the M.E.N.'s main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
Richard Hillman's reign of terror
(Image: ITV)
Brian Capron held Coronation Street fans captivated with his chilling portrayal of smirking killer Richard Hillman, who bludgeoned Maxine Peacock to death after she interrupted him trying to kill Emily Bishop - and humour was central to the story of 'Norman Bates with a briefcase.'
Brian told us: "Richard was interrupted from trying to kill Emily on Christmas Day and it was funny at the same time with a little wink to the audience."
At the height of Hillman's reign of terror on the street he drew in 20 million viewers with his slithering antics.
Dastardly Richard famously met a watery end when he drove his wife Gail and her family into the canal back in 2003 after murdering Maxine Peacock and beating babysitter Emily Bishop with a crowbar.
Pat Phelan's reign of terror
(Image: ITV/Coronation Street)
The ITV1 soap has had calls for the ultimate soap baddie to make a sensational return to Weatherfield after he went out with a dramatic ending in 2018 when he was stabbed through the chest by his nemesis Anna Windass during a horror siege at the bistro.
Viewers saw serial killer Phelan, who held a four year reign-of-terror over the cobbles, being zipped into a body bag, but they're still hoping for a comeback.
He had already led everyone to think he was dead for weeks after surviving a fall off a harbour side and hiding out in a B&B following a showdown with his wife Eileen.
"I'd start watching it again if Phelan had escaped the morgue," said one viewer.
The grooming of Bethany Platt
(Image: mirror.co.uk)
In a storyline that horrified viewers while receiving plaudits for raising awareness of a harrowing subject, schoolgirl Bethany Platt was raped and groomed by evil Nathan Curtis and his sordid gang of friends.
The storyline unfolded over months and actress Lucy Fallon scooped two awards at the British Soap Awards in 2018 for Best Female Dramatic performance and Best Actress after receiving high praise for her portrayal of vulnerable Bethany.
Aidan Connor's suicide
(Image: Coronation Street/ITV)
The Samaritans recorded a surge in calls after the death of popular character Aidan Connor in 2018.
"Aidan's storyline, the phone lines went crazy - it saved lives," said actor Shayne Ward.
Shayne and former producer Kate Oates worked closely with the Samaritans to handle the storyline of Aidan's suicide respectfully after he secretly battled depression, and the storyline coincided with Mental Health Awareness Week.
David Platt rape storyline
Popular character David was drugged and raped in 2018 by mechanic Josh Tucker on a night out.
Soap bosses worked with charity Survivors Manchester supporting male survivors of sexual abuse and rape on the storyline. In the month after it aired in March 2018, Survivors had a 64 per cent increase in referrals - mainly self referral from male survivors - compared to the same time last year.
And Survivors Manchester and the National Male Survivors helpline saw a 1,700 per cent increase in male survivors contacting them.
Sinead Osbourne's cancer battle
(Image: Coronation Street/ITV)
Actress Katie McGlynn rightfully won best serial drama performance at the National Television Awards 2020 for her role as Sinead Osbourne.
Sinead's death from cervical cancer saw some of the programme's most harrowing scenes as it unflinchingly documented the young mum's journey right up until the very end, working with the charity Mummy's Star, dedicated to women and their families affected by cancer during pregnancy.
Vote for your favourite
poll loading What is Coronation Street's greatest ever storyline? 0+ VOTES SO FAR The death of Tina McIntyre The death of Callum Logan Tram crash Alan Bradley killed by a tram Richard Hillman's reign of terror Pat Phelan's reign of terror The grooming of Bethany Platt Aidan Connor's suicide David Platt rape storyline Sinead Osbourne's cancer battle
Want to talk about Corrie with other fans? Join our Coronation Street Fan Chat group on Facebook where you’ll also get updates, spoilers and more.
You can vote for your favourite Coronation Street storyline in our tool above.
Any ones that you think should be included?
Let us know in the comments below.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--A dad burdened by years of sexual abuse broke down and told his neighbour - a heartbreaking revelati

A dad burdened by years of sexual abuse broke down and told his neighbour - a heartbreaking revelation followed

When Brian was struggling to deal with the burden years of sexual abuse he found out that those with a shared experience were very close to home .
Brian was in his garden when a neighbour noticed he was upset and went to check on him .
“ He knocked on to see how I was and it just all came out , '' he says .
`` I couldn ’ t carry it anymore .
I was in tears , ready to kill myself .
And his response was ‘ me too ’ .
“ It was him who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day on every time he saw me he would ask ‘ have you been to Survivors ?
’ “ So I found them and I went to the Wednesday drop in.
” Brian - not his real name - was sexually abused by a family member between the ages of five and eleven and was later abused by another person .
He was also exposed to pornography from a young age and says he was subjected to “ peer to peer sexual experiences ” that shaped his life .
But Brian kept his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about it for more than 20 years .
When he finally spoke out , he found there were plenty of men just like him who could support him .
“ My entire formative years were filled with sexual experiences and was the norm until I realised that was not a normal life , ” he says .
“ When other friends talked about their first experiences with girls , for me that was my entire life .
“ I had emotionally stopped growing at that point .
That was high school .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was all I could think about .
I spent as much of that trying to forget by drinking and drugs to cover the pain .
“ I didn ’ t tell anyone .
I only disclosed about four years ago and it took another year to disclose to my GP.
” Eventually , Brian looked for help from Survivors Manchester .
The charity has been working with men and boys affected by sexual abuse and rape for eleven years .
Most recently , staff have been working to help the survivors of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jailed for life for raping 44 men and sexually assaulting a further four .
The Manchester based charity has today been granted a funding boost from the Ministry of Justice so staff can help more men with counselling and support services .
The charity will receive an extra £52,000 per year , as will Manchester Rape Crisis .
The government has also promised an extra £36,425 a year to Trafford Rape Crisis .
The announcement is part of what the government say is “ a 50 per cent increase for rape support services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three years until 2022 ” .
It will mean that men like Brian will have quicker access to counselling and support services - something he says is vital .
“ I ’ ve been with Survivors coming up three years in August , ” he says .
“ I grew up in a house where 'men were men ' so even if my abusers had not ensured my silence I had to be silent .
Men couldn ’ t show weakness and had to be strong .
That was my education .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Duncan ( Survivors Manchester CEO ) and the Survivors guys I don ’ t know where I ’ d be.
” Though he believes that all victims of abuse should seek help , Brian admits that he found it incredibly hard to take the first step .
He says : “ Before going to the drop in for the first time I was sat by a train track ready to jump in front of a train .
“ Duncan came into the drop in that day and had a conversation like I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is the CEO and he had time to talk to me ’ .
At that time I thought I was a nobody .
I would describe it as finding my people .
“ I always knew logically and academically that I was not the only one .
But feeling it is completely different to knowing it .
“ From that day I became part of a huge family .
“ Abuse happens in isolation , healing happens together .
“ It ’ s not just the amazing work they do , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and help each other .
“ The circumstances that bring us here are very unique but the feeling they generate that ’ s where we find our common ground .
They empower us to take our power back .
“ I hated coming here to begin with and I can ’ t explain why I kept coming back .
But the more I came here the lighter I felt .
“ It ’ s quite overwhelming .
I would describe it as a brotherhood.
” Brian - who suffers fro post traumatic stress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on cannabis to ‘ numb ’ his pain , but hasn ’ t smoked for several months .
“ I now feel like I have the memories of someone else , ” he says .
“ When I first came here I was a baby emotionally .
Now I ’ m trying to find my voice .
“ The drop in is absolutely life saving .
If Survivors did n't exist I would be dead .
I would just be a statistic .
“ The hardest thing you will ever do is walk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It seems impossible but ignoring it will cause far bigger problems .
“ I don ’ t think you ’ ll ever be ready to face these things but that ’ s how you start getting your power back.
” Survivors Manchester , Greater Manchester Rape Crisis and Trafford Rape Crisis have secured just over £840,000 between them for the next two years .
Chris Speed , the centre manager at Survivors Manchester , says the money will make a direct impact straight away .
“ Our waiting list for some services is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he says .
“ This will mean we ’ ll be able to see five clients each day .
“ The direct support males will get from this and their loved ones is a relief for the service and for anyone affected by abuse.
” Chris says demand for services has increased since details of the Reynhard Sinaga case were revealed .
He says : “ We operate on a larger scale than the size of the charity .
“ We generally get two new referrals a day .
Over two weeks we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aim to deliver a gold service .
We would love to not be here but unfortunately , until something changes , we will always be needed.
” The government plans to spend £1 million of the funding allocated for rape crisis to recruit more Independent Sexual Violence Advisers ( ISVAs ) across England and Wales .
Gayna Williams , is an ISVA at Survivors and says her role is a vital bridge between the legal system and victim support .
“ The role involves supporting someone from report to court each day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become the point of contact for the police and investigating team .
If someone comes to us who is not sure about reporting we will give them the information to make an informed choice .
“ But before someone is in a good place to report they may have housing issues , mental health issues , drug and alcohol issues or other issues we would like to address .
“ ISVAs are vital , especially for the men I work with , to keep people in the criminal justice process .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victim , the thought of going to court and trial can be really daunting.
” Gayna attends pre trial court visits with survivors and shows the clients the courtroom , videolink room and will discuss any special measures for those giving evidence .
“ To have your ISVA with you every step of the way is so beneficial , ” she says .
“ The relationships can last anything from three months to three years .
It all depends how quickly the investigation goes .
If it ’ s a wider investigation it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ An ISVA is still quite an unusual role .
A lot of people haven ’ t heard of an ISVA and there are agencies that people doing ISVA style work but without the accreditation .
It ’ s more than just support in general.
” During a visit to Survivors , Victims Minister Wendy Morton said the ‘ uplift ’ in funding shows “ a real commitment from this government to help survivors of rape ” .
“ Rape doesn ’ t just affect women - let ’ s not forget there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We are committed to helping support all victims of rape .
“ I was keen to meet the organisation involved in the Sinaga case .
“ It ’ s about gaining an understanding of the services they offer and the support needed for survivors .
I have been really impressed by what I ’ ve seen today .
She added : “ Services need to be accessible .
“ The role of organisations like Survivors is vital - they have the expertise here and are able to work with other organisations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sinaga case.
” More than 9,500 sexual offences were recorded by Greater Manchester Police last year .
Commenting on the funding boost a spokesperson for Trafford Rape Crisis said : “ We ’ re extremely grateful to be selected for this much needed funding .
“ Specifically in Greater Manchester it will allow us to provide a wider range of face-to-face services on both an individual and group basis .
We ’ re looking forward to putting it to good use .
“ As a charity and a voluntary organisation it makes a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members of staff .
”

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When Brian was struggling to deal with the burden years of sexual abuse he found out that those with a shared experience were very close to home.
Brian was in his garden when a neighbour noticed he was upset and went to check on him.
“He knocked on to see how I was and it just all came out," he says. "I couldn’t carry it anymore. I was in tears, ready to kill myself. And his response was ‘me too’.
“It was him who signposted me to Survivors and from that day on every time he saw me he would ask ‘have you been to Survivors?’
“So I found them and I went to the Wednesday drop in.”
Brian - not his real name - was sexually abused by a family member between the ages of five and eleven and was later abused by another person.
He was also exposed to pornography from a young age and says he was subjected to “peer to peer sexual experiences” that shaped his life.
But Brian kept his abuse a secret, refusing to speak about it for more than 20 years.
When he finally spoke out, he found there were plenty of men just like him who could support him.
“My entire formative years were filled with sexual experiences and was the norm until I realised that was not a normal life,” he says.
“When other friends talked about their first experiences with girls, for me that was my entire life.
“I had emotionally stopped growing at that point. That was high school.
“For the next 15 to 20 years it was all I could think about. I spent as much of that trying to forget by drinking and drugs to cover the pain.
“I didn’t tell anyone. I only disclosed about four years ago and it took another year to disclose to my GP.”
Eventually, Brian looked for help from Survivors Manchester.
The charity has been working with men and boys affected by sexual abuse and rape for eleven years.
Most recently, staff have been working to help the survivors of serial rapist Reynhard Sinaga- who has been jailed for life for raping 44 men and sexually assaulting a further four.
(Image: PA)
The Manchester based charity has today been granted a funding boost from the Ministry of Justice so staff can help more men with counselling and support services.
The charity will receive an extra £52,000 per year, as will Manchester Rape Crisis. The government has also promised an extra £36,425 a year to Trafford Rape Crisis.
The announcement is part of what the government say is “a 50 per cent increase for rape support services across England and Wales totalling £32m over three years until 2022”.
It will mean that men like Brian will have quicker access to counselling and support services - something he says is vital.
“I’ve been with Survivors coming up three years in August,” he says.
“I grew up in a house where 'men were men' so even if my abusers had not ensured my silence I had to be silent. Men couldn’t show weakness and had to be strong. That was my education.
“If it was not for people like Duncan (Survivors Manchester CEO) and the Survivors guys I don’t know where I’d be.”
Though he believes that all victims of abuse should seek help, Brian admits that he found it incredibly hard to take the first step.
He says: “Before going to the drop in for the first time I was sat by a train track ready to jump in front of a train.
“Duncan came into the drop in that day and had a conversation like I was a human being. I thought ‘this is the CEO and he had time to talk to me’. At that time I thought I was a nobody. I would describe it as finding my people.
“I always knew logically and academically that I was not the only one. But feeling it is completely different to knowing it.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
“From that day I became part of a huge family.
“Abuse happens in isolation, healing happens together.
“It’s not just the amazing work they do, it’s the survivors themselves who support and help each other.
“The circumstances that bring us here are very unique but the feeling they generate that’s where we find our common ground. They empower us to take our power back.
“I hated coming here to begin with and I can’t explain why I kept coming back. But the more I came here the lighter I felt.
“It’s quite overwhelming. I would describe it as a brotherhood.”
Brian - who suffers fro post traumatic stress disorder - says he used to rely on cannabis to ‘numb’ his pain, but hasn’t smoked for several months.
“I now feel like I have the memories of someone else,” he says.
“When I first came here I was a baby emotionally. Now I’m trying to find my voice.
“The drop in is absolutely life saving. If Survivors didn't exist I would be dead. I would just be a statistic.
“The hardest thing you will ever do is walk through that door and face it. It seems impossible but ignoring it will cause far bigger problems.
(Image: The Photography Emporium)
“I don’t think you’ll ever be ready to face these things but that’s how you start getting your power back.”
Survivors Manchester, Greater Manchester Rape Crisis and Trafford Rape Crisis have secured just over £840,000 between them for the next two years.
Chris Speed, the centre manager at Survivors Manchester, says the money will make a direct impact straight away.
“Our waiting list for some services is currently up to 24 weeks,” he says. “This will mean we’ll be able to see five clients each day.
Follow reporter Beth Abbit on social media To follow Beth on Twitter, click here Or to like her Facebook page and keep up to with the latest news, click here Here's the link to the M.E.N's main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
“The direct support males will get from this and their loved ones is a relief for the service and for anyone affected by abuse.”
Chris says demand for services has increased since details of the Reynhard Sinaga case were revealed.
He says: “We operate on a larger scale than the size of the charity.
“We generally get two new referrals a day. Over two weeks we had 64 new referrals.
“We aim to deliver a gold service. We would love to not be here but unfortunately, until something changes, we will always be needed.”
The government plans to spend £1 million of the funding allocated for rape crisis to recruit more Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) across England and Wales.
Gayna Williams, is an ISVA at Survivors and says her role is a vital bridge between the legal system and victim support.
“The role involves supporting someone from report to court each day,” she says.
“I could become the point of contact for the police and investigating team. If someone comes to us who is not sure about reporting we will give them the information to make an informed choice.
“But before someone is in a good place to report they may have housing issues, mental health issues, drug and alcohol issues or other issues we would like to address.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
“ISVAs are vital, especially for the men I work with, to keep people in the criminal justice process.
“It takes so much pressure off the actual victim, the thought of going to court and trial can be really daunting.”
Gayna attends pre trial court visits with survivors and shows the clients the courtroom, videolink room and will discuss any special measures for those giving evidence.
“To have your ISVA with you every step of the way is so beneficial,” she says.
“The relationships can last anything from three months to three years. It all depends how quickly the investigation goes. If it’s a wider investigation it can be a longer relationship.”
“An ISVA is still quite an unusual role. A lot of people haven’t heard of an ISVA and there are agencies that people doing ISVA style work but without the accreditation. It’s more than just support in general.”
During a visit to Survivors, Victims Minister Wendy Morton said the ‘uplift’ in funding shows “ a real commitment from this government to help survivors of rape”.
“Rape doesn’t just affect women - let’s not forget there are male victims,” she says.
“We are committed to helping support all victims of rape.
“I was keen to meet the organisation involved in the Sinaga case.
“It’s about gaining an understanding of the services they offer and the support needed for survivors. I have been really impressed by what I’ve seen today.
What to do if you think you may have been affected by Sinaga's crimes Anyone who thinks they may have been affected by Sinaga’s crimes, come into contact with him under similar circumstances, or someone like him, is urged to contact police via 101. Information can also be passed to police via the Major Incident Public Portal. The MIPP will also provide contact details for support agencies to anyone who accesses it. The Police Major Incident Public Reporting Site website is here For anyone who wishes to seek support but does not want to talk to police, St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre can be reached on 0161 276 6515 or here. St Mary's provides forensic, counselling and aftercare services for people affected by rape and sexual assault. The National Male Survivors Helpline can be contacted on 0808 800 5005. Survivors Manchester supports boys and men who have been affected by rape and sexual assault. The charity provides therapeutic support and Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA). They offer assistance throughout the criminal justice system, from initial reports to court and beyond. ISVAs work independently of the police, Crown Prosecution Service and court system. Boys and Men in Greater Manchester affected by sexual abuse, regardless of when it happened, can access Survivors Manchester by calling 0161 236 2182 or emailing: support@survivorsmanchester.org.uk A weekly drop in session takes place each Wednesday from 2pm until 5pm. You can donate to Survivors Manchester here. Greater Manchester Rape Crisis works with women and girls affected by rape and sexual assault. They can be contacted on 0161 273 4591.
She added: “Services need to be accessible.
“The role of organisations like Survivors is vital - they have the expertise here and are able to work with other organisations and partners. That was demonstrated in the Sinaga case.”
More than 9,500 sexual offences were recorded by Greater Manchester Police last year.
Commenting on the funding boost a spokesperson for Trafford Rape Crisis said: “We’re extremely grateful to be selected for this much needed funding.
“Specifically in Greater Manchester it will allow us to provide a wider range of face-to-face services on both an individual and group basis. We’re looking forward to putting it to good use.
“As a charity and a voluntary organisation it makes a difference to be able to recruit experienced members of staff.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-12--Loneliness, worry and cold cups of tea: what life is like in quarantine for coronavirus

The ambulance crews arrived to take him away in the middle of the night from his home in Chorlton , south Manchester .
When the married father answered the door , at around 3.30am on Sunday February 9 , he said the paramedics wearing hazmat suits handed him a face mask and told him to put it on immediately .
It had been explained to him by Public Health England in a series of phone calls that this would happen , but he said it was still a shock .
With the mask covering his face , he was put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two paramedics in hazmat suits , driven by a third paramedic .
And he was taken into isolation at a specialist unit at a hospital in Greater Manchester .
We are not identifying him nor the hospital at his request .
His quarantine was prompted by a work trip in January , when he had travelled to South East Asia - crucially not to China , though , nor Singapore .
Following his return home to south Manchester in mid-January , he said he `` felt quite ill two to three days later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was sneezing , with a throat infection , temperature and sickness and nausea .
He did n't think anything of it because he had not been to China .
Towards the end of the week , he started to feel `` much better '' and `` went about my life '' , he told me .
On Thursday February 6 , he said he received a text message from the GP `` asking that we call 111 if we 've returned from that part of the world and have fallen ill after returning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obliged to call and told them what had happened . ''
`` They told me they 'd call back if there was anything else they needed to know , but did n't ask me to isolate .
`` Then , on Saturday night I got a call telling me they 'd like me to come in for a cautionary test . ''
It took more than three days for the results to come in .
`` Normally they take 12 hours , '' he said .
`` But swabs and blood samples have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there 's now quite a backlog . ''
He described the wait as `` frustrating and boring '' , even though he was `` fairly confident '' he was okay .
On Tuesday , while still waiting for the results he became concerned when Public Health England discovered the virus can be carried by a host without that host showing symptoms and he thought he would now fall into that category .
`` I 'm the same , that 's why I 'm worried now '' , he told me on Tuesday February @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus test result came through .
`` My symptoms were long gone by the time Public Health England got involved .
`` It 's the wait that makes it so difficult .
Even if I was infected , at least I 'd know .
It 's the uncertainty that makes it hard .
`` The scary part is that someone can appear completely normal , yet be infected .
`` I do n't know how to square that circle .
I fear that this is what people might take away from hearing today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the guy from Singapore . ''
Then he heard from a senior doctor who told him the results were still not back , but the virus can be carried by a host without affecting that host in any way .
`` They have nothing to prove or suggest that I may or may not be a host , but this is the new advice they 're issuing .
`` I queried why they 'd want me in isolation if I was negative , and this is what they told me .
I do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information . ''
Simple things , such as getting a cup of tea were almost impossible in isolation .
He said : `` They normally bring the water , tea bags and sugar separately .
Milk comes as part of breakfast in a separate bottle to last the day .
`` Once they 've prepared your food , it takes them so long to get into their hazmat gear , that the food and water for your tea goes cold . ''
On Monday , he asked if he could have some boiling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But after they left my room , I realised they 'd forgotten to give me a tea bag , '' he said .
He called a special telephone number he 'd been given `` around four times '' but no-one answered .
`` I knocked on the window to a passing nurse ( I 'm not allowed out of the room ) to ask for one , but she was n't in a hazmat so could n't talk . ''
Then on Tuesday , he was `` back to normal in the morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ room temperature . ''
He said : `` I know this is n't the end of the world .
But the little , innocuous things make or break your day as someone in , what is ostensibly solitary confinement . ''
`` The NHS is bloody brilliant .
The effort , dedication and resources that are obviously going into all of this is just staggering .
`` The staff treat you brilliantly .
Totally professional and try their best to cheer you up for the few fleeting seconds they 're in your room @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , are doing such an `` outstanding and professional job '' .
From the inside , he is confident `` they have the situation under control as best they can and there 's absolutely no need to panic or start holding grudges against certain ethnic groups . ''
He said a typical day began at 8am with a shower and getting ready with breakfast at 9am .
At 10am , he would `` check to confirm that there are still 37 ceiling tiles in my room . ''
An hour later : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that I 'm not out in that weather , but also regretting the fact I 'm not outside . ''
By midday , he felt like `` talking to the wall . ''
At 1pm , he pondered : `` Trying to figure out why the clock moves slower in the afternoon . ''
By 3pm , he was counting down to 'results ' time , which was typically 4.30pm .
Or the `` slowest 90 minutes of the day '' .
An hour later he has realised `` there are roughly 1,800 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The next three hours pass in a blur of boredom as he waited for dinner at 7pm .
To distract himself he spent the evening apologising for not being allowed out .
Before bed , he would attempt to adjust the radiator thermostat `` to get the room to a comfortable temperature so I can sleep '' .
When he was released from hospital after testing negative , he said it was `` such a relief to see faces again '' as `` everyone I 've seen in the last three or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` I have not seen a human face for so long . ''
He also found that his legs had `` seized up '' after being stuck in a hospital bed without being able to move around .
`` It has felt like I have been in suspended animation while I was in quarantine .
Life had gone on hold .
`` If you asked me what day of the week it was now , I would n't be able to tell you .
It 's like when you are driving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to warm up .
`` I know the thing with the cup of tea sounds so trivial but at the time it was such as big thing as you are so bored with effectively staring at a wall for 24 hours .
`` Thank God I 'd taken my phone in with me .
`` When I saw the paramedics in the hazmat suits , it did come as a shock .
It was like someone telling you that you 're going to be punched in the face .
You know it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hurts . ''
He said it reminded him of the 1980s Michael J Fox film Back to the Future , when they step out of the DeLorean car in 1955 and people are wearing radiation suits .
During his quarantine , he had very limited human contact .
Just three times a day when his meals were brought in and his observations were taken and any blood tests or checks completed .
`` The not knowing really hit me on Tuesday and I really feared I 'd be in the same pigeon hole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was really hard as I was thinking of where I 'd been and all the people I 'd been in contact with on public transport - the guilt was natural .
`` Then I was fearful of having to hide from the national media if I was outed or it would cause panic . ''
He was heartened by messages from his co-workers , which led to his eyes `` welling up with tears . ''
They were just `` so brilliant , they said : 'Take your time ' , and there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work . ''
He is most annoyed about the racism that members of the Chinese community are facing as a result of coronavirus .
`` I 'm not Chinese and to my knowledge no infected person in the UK is of Chinese heritage .
`` It sounds illogical , but we are hearing about a lot of racism towards people from certain communities .
But people should not judge a book by its cover and they need to lay off with the racism . ''

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The ambulance crews arrived to take him away in the middle of the night from his home in Chorlton, south Manchester.
They were double crewed.
When the married father answered the door, at around 3.30am on Sunday February 9, he said the paramedics wearing hazmat suits handed him a face mask and told him to put it on immediately.
It had been explained to him by Public Health England in a series of phone calls that this would happen, but he said it was still a shock.
With the mask covering his face, he was put in the back of the ambulance with two paramedics in hazmat suits, driven by a third paramedic.
And he was taken into isolation at a specialist unit at a hospital in Greater Manchester. We are not identifying him nor the hospital at his request.
(Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
His quarantine was prompted by a work trip in January, when he had travelled to South East Asia - crucially not to China, though, nor Singapore.
Following his return home to south Manchester in mid-January, he said he "felt quite ill two to three days later."
For four days, he was sneezing, with a throat infection, temperature and sickness and nausea. He didn't think anything of it because he had not been to China.
Towards the end of the week, he started to feel "much better" and "went about my life", he told me.
On Thursday February 6, he said he received a text message from the GP "asking that we call 111 if we've returned from that part of the world and have fallen ill after returning."
(Image: PA)
He said he "felt obliged to call and told them what had happened."
"They told me they'd call back if there was anything else they needed to know, but didn't ask me to isolate.
"Then, on Saturday night I got a call telling me they'd like me to come in for a cautionary test."
It took more than three days for the results to come in.
"Normally they take 12 hours," he said. "But swabs and blood samples have all been couriered down to London and there's now quite a backlog."
He described the wait as "frustrating and boring", even though he was "fairly confident" he was okay.
On Tuesday, while still waiting for the results he became concerned when Public Health England discovered the virus can be carried by a host without that host showing symptoms and he thought he would now fall into that category.
"I'm the same, that's why I'm worried now", he told me on Tuesday February 10, just hours before the negative coronavirus test result came through.
"My symptoms were long gone by the time Public Health England got involved.
(Image: AP)
"It's the wait that makes it so difficult. Even if I was infected, at least I'd know. It's the uncertainty that makes it hard.
"The scary part is that someone can appear completely normal, yet be infected.
"I don't know how to square that circle. I fear that this is what people might take away from hearing today's [Tuesday's] news about the guy from Singapore."
Then he heard from a senior doctor who told him the results were still not back, but the virus can be carried by a host without affecting that host in any way.
(Image: Getty Images)
"They have nothing to prove or suggest that I may or may not be a host, but this is the new advice they're issuing.
"I queried why they'd want me in isolation if I was negative, and this is what they told me. I don't know what to do with this information."
Simple things, such as getting a cup of tea were almost impossible in isolation.
He said: "They normally bring the water, tea bags and sugar separately. Milk comes as part of breakfast in a separate bottle to last the day.
"Once they've prepared your food, it takes them so long to get into their hazmat gear, that the food and water for your tea goes cold."
(Image: AP)
On Monday, he asked if he could have some boiling water for his evening tea.
"But after they left my room, I realised they'd forgotten to give me a tea bag," he said.
He called a special telephone number he'd been given "around four times" but no-one answered.
"I knocked on the window to a passing nurse (I'm not allowed out of the room) to ask for one, but she wasn't in a hazmat so couldn't talk."
Then on Tuesday, he was "back to normal in the morning with tea bags, but water at room temperature."
(Image: AP)
He said: "I know this isn't the end of the world. But the little, innocuous things make or break your day as someone in, what is ostensibly solitary confinement."
"The NHS is bloody brilliant. The effort, dedication and resources that are obviously going into all of this is just staggering.
"The staff treat you brilliantly. Totally professional and try their best to cheer you up for the few fleeting seconds they're in your room."
The NHS, he said, are doing such an "outstanding and professional job". From the inside, he is confident "they have the situation under control as best they can and there's absolutely no need to panic or start holding grudges against certain ethnic groups."
Read all about coronavirus
He said a typical day began at 8am with a shower and getting ready with breakfast at 9am.
At 10am, he would "check to confirm that there are still 37 ceiling tiles in my room."
An hour later: "Look out of the window, happy that I'm not out in that weather, but also regretting the fact I'm not outside."
By midday, he felt like "talking to the wall."
At 1pm, he pondered: "Trying to figure out why the clock moves slower in the afternoon."
Lunch was at 2pm.
By 3pm, he was counting down to 'results' time, which was typically 4.30pm. Or the "slowest 90 minutes of the day".
(Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
An hour later he has realised "there are roughly 1,800 seconds to go until results time."
The next three hours pass in a blur of boredom as he waited for dinner at 7pm.
To distract himself he spent the evening apologising for not being allowed out.
Before bed, he would attempt to adjust the radiator thermostat "to get the room to a comfortable temperature so I can sleep".
When he was released from hospital after testing negative, he said it was "such a relief to see faces again" as "everyone I've seen in the last three or four days has had their head covered".
"I have not seen a human face for so long."
(Image: PA)
He also found that his legs had "seized up" after being stuck in a hospital bed without being able to move around.
"It has felt like I have been in suspended animation while I was in quarantine. Life had gone on hold.
"If you asked me what day of the week it was now, I wouldn't be able to tell you. It's like when you are driving a car that's cold and needs to warm up.
"I know the thing with the cup of tea sounds so trivial but at the time it was such as big thing as you are so bored with effectively staring at a wall for 24 hours.
"Thank God I'd taken my phone in with me.
(Image: Mirrorpix)
"When I saw the paramedics in the hazmat suits, it did come as a shock. It was like someone telling you that you're going to be punched in the face. You know it's going to happen - but it still hurts."
He said it reminded him of the 1980s Michael J Fox film Back to the Future, when they step out of the DeLorean car in 1955 and people are wearing radiation suits.
During his quarantine, he had very limited human contact.
Just three times a day when his meals were brought in and his observations were taken and any blood tests or checks completed.
"The not knowing really hit me on Tuesday and I really feared I'd be in the same pigeon hole as the super spreader.
(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)
"It was really hard as I was thinking of where I'd been and all the people I'd been in contact with on public transport - the guilt was natural.
"Then I was fearful of having to hide from the national media if I was outed or it would cause panic."
He was heartened by messages from his co-workers, which led to his eyes "welling up with tears."
They were just "so brilliant, they said: 'Take your time', and there was no pressure to rush back to work."
He is most annoyed about the racism that members of the Chinese community are facing as a result of coronavirus.
"I'm not Chinese and to my knowledge no infected person in the UK is of Chinese heritage.
"It sounds illogical, but we are hearing about a lot of racism towards people from certain communities. But people should not judge a book by its cover and they need to lay off with the racism."