themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Bitter row as Labour claim austerity is responsible for 'killing' BAME people

A bitter row broke out over Covid-funding for town halls as Labour councillors claimed austerity was responsible for ‘ killing ’ BAME communities .
There were furious exchanges between Conservative and Labour members during Rochdale council ’ s first virtual full council meeting .
Councillors were debating a motion from Coun Faisal Rana demanding ‘ the government fulfils its promise to fully reimburse the authority its cost ’ of fighting coronavirus .
At the time of the meeting the council ’ s covid funding gap stood at £26m , although a further £2.4m in emergency government cash was announced the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the motion , calling for a public inquiry into the UK 's response to the pandemic , was somewhat overtaken by events , with the Prime Minister announcing one would be held ‘ in future ’ shortly before the meeting .
However , its assertion that any official probe must focus on ‘ the disproportionate impact the virus has had on the BAME population ’ , was at the heart of much of the ensuing controversy .
Public Health England has found that people of Bangladeshi ethnicity were twice as likely to die @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while other BAME groups were at up to 50pc higher risk of death .
And deputy leader Coun Sarah Rowbotham accused the Conservatives of sowing the seeds of the devastation via the austerity policies the party pursued from 2010 .
She told the meeting : “ It ’ s absolutely proven that black and minority ethnic populations are dying from this disease unequally .
They are more likely to die , they are more likely to be affected and the direct consequence of that is proven by the Marmot report .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause of that was the austerity our community has faced over the last 10 years .
It ’ s everything to do with politics , the political decisions that were made by this Tory government , ultimately , are killing black and minority ethnic populations.
” She said : “ I ’ m a councillor for one of the most deprived wards in this borough .
`` Before the pandemic we had informed that my ward had been the worst in the whole north west , health-wise .
Why ?
Because all this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government ’ s fault .
It has all surfaced now , but it was happening before .
Now is the time for the government to have an inquiry.
” Coun Zaheer also blamed the Conservative government for deaths of BAME frontline workers .
“ Why have we lost so many precious doctors , nurses , bus drivers ... the list goes on and on .
Who is responsible ?
This government , for the past 10 years we have suffered it and it has surfaced because of Covid , it has come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are seeing are because of austerity , because people didn ’ t have enough to protect themselves.
” However Labour ’ s stance sparked fury and dismay among the Conservatives ranks .
Coun Rina Paoulucci said : “ You are blaming the government for basically people dying over a pandemic that started in China and has come to us - It ’ s the government ’ s fault that the people are dying whether it ’ s the BAME community or people on low incomes .
“ I ’ m sorry , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ belt.
” The Wardle and West Littleborough council said that despite the ‘ huge list ’ of measures brought forward by Chancellor Rishi Sunak , it was never enough to satisfy Labour .
However her remarks upset Labour ’ s Coun Danny Meredith , who recently returned to nursing .
The Balderstone and Kirkholt member said he had lost a colleague to coronavirus who did not have the PPE he needed , and called on Coun Paolucci to retract her comments .
But deputy Tory group leader Coun Pat Sullivan later told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asking for a report on what has gone wrong .
Things have gone wrong , how could everything go right - no one is an oracle .
No one expected this.
” She added : “ We have tried to work together with you and this is not helping , it ’ s just very unpleasant and unnecessary.
” While introducing his motion , Coun Rana said it would be a ‘ betrayal ’ if Rishi Sunak did not honour his pledge to give town halls ‘ whatever it takes ’ to defeat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dearnley insisted his party was ‘ on the side of the people ’ , citing the multi-billion recovery package announced by the chancellor last week , as well as the millions in tax relief and grants that had benefited Rochdale specifically .
“ If you don ’ t think that ’ s a commitment to the people of this country , I don ’ t know what on earth you think it is , ” he said .
Coun Dearnley also accused Labour of jumping the gun in their haste to criticise the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re going to get money , '' he said : `` The chancellor is listening to everyone and there will be more money coming to Rochdale .
In his budget he is going to make an announcements so that we have a positive way forward , involving local authorities more than Labour ever did or we have done as a party.
” However Labour ’ s Coun Elsie Wraighte said that while the chancellor ’ s announcements were a small step in the direction , Coun Dearnley would ‘ know full well that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the council ’ s full losses ’ .
“ It ’ s still going to leave us having to absorb a really substantial loss of funding , ” she added .
“ What does worry me is we have a financial crisis looming over the horizon , the Conservatives aren ’ t doing enough to help our council and Rochdale people now and I have to say I don ’ t think they can be trusted to do the right thing in a few months time.
” The Conservatives amendment was defeated and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Rochdale news sign up to the MyRochdale newsletter here
Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Rochdale news sign up to the MyRochdale newsletter here
A bitter row broke out over Covid-funding for town halls as Labour councillors claimed austerity was responsible for ‘killing’ BAME communities.
There were furious exchanges between Conservative and Labour members during Rochdale council’s first virtual full council meeting.
Councillors were debating a motion from Coun Faisal Rana demanding ‘the government fulfils its promise to fully reimburse the authority its cost’ of fighting coronavirus.
At the time of the meeting the council’s covid funding gap stood at £26m, although a further £2.4m in emergency government cash was announced the following day.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
A second part of the motion, calling for a public inquiry into the UK's response to the pandemic, was somewhat overtaken by events, with the Prime Minister announcing one would be held ‘in future’ shortly before the meeting.
However, its assertion that any official probe must focus on ‘the disproportionate impact the virus has had on the BAME population’, was at the heart of much of the ensuing controversy.
Public Health England has found that people of Bangladeshi ethnicity were twice as likely to die of the virus than white British ,while other BAME groups were at up to 50pc higher risk of death.
And deputy leader Coun Sarah Rowbotham accused the Conservatives of sowing the seeds of the devastation via the austerity policies the party pursued from 2010.
She told the meeting: “It’s absolutely proven that black and minority ethnic populations are dying from this disease unequally. They are more likely to die, they are more likely to be affected and the direct consequence of that is proven by the Marmot report.
“It’s absolutely proven that the absolute cause of that was the austerity our community has faced over the last 10 years. It’s everything to do with politics, the political decisions that were made by this Tory government, ultimately, are killing black and minority ethnic populations.”
Milkstone and Deeplish councillor Sameena Zaheer made similar remarks.
She said: “I’m a councillor for one of the most deprived wards in this borough.
"Before the pandemic we had informed that my ward had been the worst in the whole north west, health-wise. Why? Because all this austerity, why people are dying is the government’s fault. It has all surfaced now, but it was happening before. Now is the time for the government to have an inquiry.”
Coun Zaheer also blamed the Conservative government for deaths of BAME frontline workers.
“Why have we lost so many precious doctors, nurses, bus drivers...the list goes on and on. Who is responsible? This government, for the past 10 years we have suffered it and it has surfaced because of Covid, it has come into the limelight. All these deaths we are seeing are because of austerity, because people didn’t have enough to protect themselves.”
However Labour’s stance sparked fury and dismay among the Conservatives ranks.
Coun Rina Paoulucci said: “You are blaming the government for basically people dying over a pandemic that started in China and has come to us - It’s the government’s fault that the people are dying whether it’s the BAME community or people on low incomes.
“I’m sorry, that is really, really below the belt.”
The Wardle and West Littleborough council said that despite the ‘huge list’ of measures brought forward by Chancellor Rishi Sunak, it was never enough to satisfy Labour.
However her remarks upset Labour’s Coun Danny Meredith, who recently returned to nursing. The Balderstone and Kirkholt member said he had lost a colleague to coronavirus who did not have the PPE he needed, and called on Coun Paolucci to retract her comments.
But deputy Tory group leader Coun Pat Sullivan later told the meeting: “It’s premature asking for a report on what has gone wrong. Things have gone wrong, how could everything go right - no one is an oracle. No one expected this.”
She added: “We have tried to work together with you and this is not helping, it’s just very unpleasant and unnecessary.”
While introducing his motion, Coun Rana said it would be a ‘betrayal’ if Rishi Sunak did not honour his pledge to give town halls ‘whatever it takes’ to defeat coronavirus.
But Tory leader Coun Ashley Dearnley insisted his party was ‘on the side of the people’ , citing the multi-billion recovery package announced by the chancellor last week, as well as the millions in tax relief and grants that had benefited Rochdale specifically.
“If you don’t think that’s a commitment to the people of this country, I don’t know what on earth you think it is,” he said.
Coun Dearnley also accused Labour of jumping the gun in their haste to criticise the government.
“Of course we’re going to get money," he said: "The chancellor is listening to everyone and there will be more money coming to Rochdale. In his budget he is going to make an announcements so that we have a positive way forward, involving local authorities more than Labour ever did or we have done as a party.”
However Labour’s Coun Elsie Wraighte said that while the chancellor’s announcements were a small step in the direction, Coun Dearnley would ‘know full well that the thing he listed would not cover the council’s full losses’.
“It’s still going to leave us having to absorb a really substantial loss of funding,” she added.
“What does worry me is we have a financial crisis looming over the horizon, the Conservatives aren’t doing enough to help our council and Rochdale people now and I have to say I don’t think they can be trusted to do the right thing in a few months time.”
The Conservatives amendment was defeated and Labour’s original motion was carried.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Councillor hits out at dog owners for endangering young footballers

A councillor has hit out at ‘ irresponsible ‘ dog owners for letting their pets poo on a playing field which he claims is endangering young footballers .
Failsworth East Councillor Norman Briggs raised the enduring issue of dog fouling at a virtual meeting of Oldham ’ s full council , where he quizzed bosses about what more could be done to prevent it .
Under the borough ’ s rules , it is an offence if people fail to remove their dog ’ s mess and you can be issued with a fixed penalty notice and forced to pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does not pay or disputes the fine , a court summons will be issued which can lead to them being fined up to £1,000 for each offence if found guilty .
However a freedom of information request to the council revealed that just four fixed penalty notices were issued to dog owners in 2019 .
Coun Briggs told members : “ Dog fouling continues to be a problem across the borough because of irresponsible dog owners .
“ One area that causes a major problem for my constituents is Recreation Road playing fields @ @ @ @ @ @ @ field is used by local football teams and the organisers of the matches often have to clean up the field themselves in advance of matches because the amount of dog dirt on the field makes it dangerous for local young people to play on .
“ Is there more that can be done to prevent dog fouling at this and other problem areas around the borough , and what can we do to tackle these irresponsible dog owners ?
” However Coun Barbara Brownridge , cabinet member for neighbourhoods , said the problem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have to challenge owners to change their behaviour so if we witness individuals letting dogs foul on playing fields it needs to be reported to the environmental health and obviously we will take action against it in so far as we can with the limited resources available to us , ” she said .
“ I will ask for the signage around the fields to be reviewed and enhanced to make clear , but ultimately I ’ m afraid there isn ’ t an answer if people are going to continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year the council agreed to consult on plans to raise the on-the-spot fine from £80 to £100 .
And Liberal Democrat Coun Dave Murphy previously called for dogs to be taken away from ‘ irresponsible ’ owners and rehomed .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss a thing by signing up to the MyOldham newsletter here
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss a thing by signing up to the MyOldham newsletter here
A councillor has hit out at ‘irresponsible‘ dog owners for letting their pets poo on a playing field which he claims is endangering young footballers.
Failsworth East Councillor Norman Briggs raised the enduring issue of dog fouling at a virtual meeting of Oldham’s full council, where he quizzed bosses about what more could be done to prevent it.
Under the borough’s rules, it is an offence if people fail to remove their dog’s mess and you can be issued with a fixed penalty notice and forced to pay an £80 fine.
If a person does not pay or disputes the fine, a court summons will be issued which can lead to them being fined up to £1,000 for each offence if found guilty.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
However a freedom of information request to the council revealed that just four fixed penalty notices were issued to dog owners in 2019.
Coun Briggs told members: “Dog fouling continues to be a problem across the borough because of irresponsible dog owners.
“One area that causes a major problem for my constituents is Recreation Road playing fields in Failsworth East.
“This playing field is used by local football teams and the organisers of the matches often have to clean up the field themselves in advance of matches because the amount of dog dirt on the field makes it dangerous for local young people to play on.
(Image: Oldham council)
“Is there more that can be done to prevent dog fouling at this and other problem areas around the borough, and what can we do to tackle these irresponsible dog owners?”
However Coun Barbara Brownridge, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said the problem was a national issue.
“Ultimately we have to challenge owners to change their behaviour so if we witness individuals letting dogs foul on playing fields it needs to be reported to the environmental health and obviously we will take action against it in so far as we can with the limited resources available to us,” she said.
“I will ask for the signage around the fields to be reviewed and enhanced to make clear, but ultimately I’m afraid there isn’t an answer if people are going to continue to act so selfishly and inappropriately.”
Last year the council agreed to consult on plans to raise the on-the-spot fine from £80 to £100.
And Liberal Democrat Coun Dave Murphy previously called for dogs to be taken away from ‘irresponsible’ owners and rehomed.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Changes made to council improvement notice over ‘inadequate’ children’s services

The government has issued an updated improvement notice to Trafford Council due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic after rating the authority ’ s children social care services as ‘ inadequate ’ last year .
Following an inspection in May 2019 , watchdog Ofsted rated the overall effectiveness of Trafford council ’ s children ’ s services ‘ inadequate ’ .
The government notice legally requires the council to ‘ take steps ’ to improve its children ’ s social care services urgently .
If they fail to do this , the government would have to step in .
As the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flexibility from the government regarding the requirements of the notice , giving it space to respond to the outbreak .
Now , Matthew Edwards , the government ’ s deputy director for children ’ s social care , improvement and interventions , has laid out a plan of action for the authority and granted some flexibility .
On June 18 , Mr Edwards wrote to Trafford on behalf of the Secretary of State for Education and said : “ We are aware that local authorities are facing unprecedented pressures arising from the COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children ’ s social work activity to ensure children are safe and protected from harm .
“ We know you and your teams will be doing everything you can to keep children safe during this unprecedented time .
“ As part of these efforts , it is critical that local authorities continue their focus on improving services.
” In order to maintain this focus on improvement during the current crisis , Mr Edwards set out temporary steps that Trafford council will need to follow with the input of the government going forward .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least every six weeks • Advisors to report to government on progress of improvement • Review meetings with the Department for Education within three months to focus on progress and service delivery In his letter Mr Edwards added : “ While offering these flexibilities , our focus continues to be to ensure that children are safe and protected from harm and we expect that the local authority will maintain momentum in progressing the improvement objectives outlined in the improvement notice .
“ If we become concerned about progress , we will take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There is an expectation that once you have returned to business as usual , you will return to the priorities and timeframes specified in your improvement notice.
” Following the Ofsted inspection last year , inspectors have conducted follow-up visits to monitor the authority ’ s progress and said ‘ improvements were being made ’ .
Coun Nathan Evans , leader of the Trafford Conservative group , said : “ Whilst it was disastrous for Trafford ’ s children ’ s services to be rated as ‘ inadequate ’ , the Conservative group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s improvement board , under the independent chairmanship of Claire Burgess .
“ We are pressing the Labour council administration to keep progress on track in the delivery of the children ’ s services improvement plan and we have full confidence in Claire Burgess to be able to lead the change to ensure that all children and young people in Trafford are safe , protected from harm and supported so that they can achieve their full potential.
” A spokesperson for Trafford council said : “ We are committed to ensuring the welfare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period of lockdown we have continued to work hard to maintain checks on our vulnerable children so that they are safe .
“ We are pleased that , in the letter , the government has recognised the unprecedented pressures the council and our staff are working under due to the coronavirus .
“ Some of the changes , such as meeting virtually , are sensible precautions .
As an organisation , we have already been adapting our ways of working due to the coronavirus so that we can maintain our focus on improving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Ever since we received the improvement notice , we have been committed to improving our children ’ s services and lockdown has not changed that focus at all .
“ Our priority continues to be the safety and welfare of all children and young people in Trafford .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Trafford news sign up to the MyTrafford newsletter here
Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Trafford news sign up to the MyTrafford newsletter here
The government has issued an updated improvement notice to Trafford Council due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic after rating the authority’s children social care services as ‘inadequate’ last year.
Following an inspection in May 2019, watchdog Ofsted rated the overall effectiveness of Trafford council’s children’s services ‘inadequate’.
The government notice legally requires the council to ‘take steps’ to improve its children’s social care services urgently. If they fail to do this, the government would have to step in.
As the COVID-19 pandemic began, Trafford council requested flexibility from the government regarding the requirements of the notice, giving it space to respond to the outbreak.
Now, Matthew Edwards, the government’s deputy director for children’s social care, improvement and interventions, has laid out a plan of action for the authority and granted some flexibility.
(Image: Vincent Cole)
On June 18, Mr Edwards wrote to Trafford on behalf of the Secretary of State for Education and said: “We are aware that local authorities are facing unprecedented pressures arising from the COVID-19 crisis in addition to carrying out normal children’s social work activity to ensure children are safe and protected from harm.
“We know you and your teams will be doing everything you can to keep children safe during this unprecedented time.
“As part of these efforts, it is critical that local authorities continue their focus on improving services.”
In order to maintain this focus on improvement during the current crisis, Mr Edwards set out temporary steps that Trafford council will need to follow with the input of the government going forward.
These steps include:
Virtual board meetings for education representatives at least every six weeks
Monitoring and updating improvement plans
Advisors to report to government on progress of improvement
Review meetings with the Department for Education within three months to focus on progress and service delivery
In his letter Mr Edwards added: “While offering these flexibilities, our focus continues to be to ensure that children are safe and protected from harm and we expect that the local authority will maintain momentum in progressing the improvement objectives outlined in the improvement notice.
“If we become concerned about progress, we will take quick action to address
this.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“There is an expectation that once you have returned to business as usual,
you will return to the priorities and timeframes specified in your improvement notice.”
Following the Ofsted inspection last year, inspectors have conducted follow-up visits to monitor the authority’s progress and said ‘improvements were being made’.
Coun Nathan Evans, leader of the Trafford Conservative group, said: “Whilst it was disastrous for Trafford’s children’s services to be rated as ‘inadequate’, the Conservative group welcomed the introduction of the children’s improvement board, under the independent chairmanship of Claire Burgess.
“We are pressing the Labour council administration to keep progress on track in the delivery of the children’s services improvement plan and we have full confidence in Claire Burgess to be able to lead the change to ensure that all children and young people in Trafford are safe, protected from harm and supported so that they can achieve their full potential.”
A spokesperson for Trafford council said: “We are committed to ensuring the welfare of all our children. Throughout the period of lockdown we have continued to work hard to maintain checks on our vulnerable children so that they are safe.
“We are pleased that, in the letter, the government has recognised the unprecedented pressures the council and our staff are working under due to the coronavirus.
“Some of the changes, such as meeting virtually, are sensible precautions. As an organisation, we have already been adapting our ways of working due to the coronavirus so that we can maintain our focus on improving our services during the current pandemic.
“Ever since we received the improvement notice, we have been committed to improving our children’s services and lockdown has not changed that focus at all.
“Our priority continues to be the safety and welfare of all children and young people in Trafford.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--The guidance which could allow football stadiums to reopen in October

It 's the news that sports fans have been waiting after watching Premier League football in empty stadia with the noise of fans artificially added to make up for the lack of spectators .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced the return of fans to sports stadia from October .
In the meantime , a small number of sporting events will be used to pilot the safe return of spectators later this month and into August .
Social distancing will remain in place and there will be reduced capacity at sports venues .
Mr Johnson told the Downing Street press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performances to a live audience , subject to the success of pilots , and we will also pilot larger gatherings in venues like sport stadia , with a view to a wider reopening in the autumn . ''
Events in the pilot have been carefully selected to represent a range of sports and indoor and outdoor spectator environments .
They are expected to include two men ’ s county cricket friendly matches – such as Surrey v Middlesex at The Oval on July 26 and 27 – the World Snooker Championship at Sheffield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and the Glorious Goodwood horse racing festival on August 1 .
There are also likely to be further pilot events for other sports , in order to build up to and prepare for the full , socially distanced return of sporting events from October 1 .
The pilot events will provide the opportunity to stress-test the government ’ s ‘ stage five ’ guidance , on the return of fans to elite sports events .
The guidance has been developed with UK Sport and in close consultation with the Deputy Chief Medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Sports Grounds Safety Authority , Police and medical representatives across Olympic , Paralympic and professional sports governing bodies .
It is designed for competition delivery partners and venue operators and marks the final piece of Government guidance for the resumption of elite sport .
The guidance will outline the conditions , facilities and processes that will need to be implemented for the safe return of spectators to competitive sporting events , including tight restrictions on numbers in the short-term .
Further guidance outlining the licensing obligations for sports stadia and how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line with social distancing restrictions will be published by the Sports Grounds Safety Authority .
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said : `` For months , millions of us have felt the void of being unable to go to the match to support our team or attend a top-class sporting event .
`` So I am pleased that we are now able to move forward with a plan to help venues safely reopen their doors to fans .
`` I recognise that not every sport , team or club has the benefit of huge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their dedicated fans that are the lifeblood which helps keep them going .
`` By working closely with sports and medical experts , these pilots will help ensure the safe return of fans to stadia .
`` Although it will remain some time before venues are full to capacity , this is a major step in the right direction for the resumption of live spectator sport across the country .
The stage five guidance makes clear that the following operating standards must be in place for spectators until further notice : • Prior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partners should provide spectators with information on the steps being implemented to minimise the risk of Covid-19 , including any modifications being made to the venue .
• Spectators must agree to a new code of behaviour obliging them to take full responsibility for themselves and others by not attending if they have any symptoms or have potentially been exposed to someone with coronavirus .
Anyone attending an event will also be advised to consider if they are putting themselves at higher risk because of their general state of health or any other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be in place , so that social distancing is observed in seating arrangements , alongside a minimising of the numbers of tickets sold to a predefined safe capacity , in accordance with regulator guidance .
• Spectators must be supported to avoid public transport , including through parking facilities , bike and walking routes .
However a transport management plan with local and national providers should be in place to increase service frequency , where needed .
• A crowd management plan should be in place , incorporating the controlled entry and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times ) , and one-way systems inside the venue to maintain social distancing and minimise the risk of crowding .
• Additional hygiene facilities , such as hand washing and sanitiser stations , should be provided , particularly at entry and exit points to the competition venue and in seating/standing areas .
• Screens or barriers should be used to separate people from each other when social distancing can not be maintained for catering and retail , such as buying programmes and merchandise , or betting .
• Signage and floor markings should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ venues to enforce social distancing , seating plans , one-way systems and queuing requirements .
• Spectator medical requirements should be considered , such as additional isolation rooms , and screening when entering the competition venue .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for political news and analysis from outside the Westminster bubble
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for political news and analysis from outside the Westminster bubble
It's the news that sports fans have been waiting after watching Premier League football in empty stadia with the noise of fans artificially added to make up for the lack of spectators.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced the return of fans to sports stadia from October.
In the meantime, a small number of sporting events will be used to pilot the safe return of spectators later this month and into August.
Social distancing will remain in place and there will be reduced capacity at sports venues.
Mr Johnson told the Downing Street press briefing: "We will restart indoor performances to a live audience, subject to the success of pilots, and we will also pilot larger gatherings in venues like sport stadia, with a view to a wider reopening in the autumn."
Events in the pilot have been carefully selected to represent a range of sports and indoor and outdoor spectator environments.
They are expected to include two men’s county cricket friendly matches – such as Surrey v Middlesex at The Oval on July 26 and 27 – the World Snooker Championship at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre from July 31, and the Glorious Goodwood horse racing festival on August 1.
There are also likely to be further pilot events for other sports, in order to build up to and prepare for the full, socially distanced return of sporting events from October 1.
(Image: PA)
The pilot events will provide the opportunity to stress-test the government’s ‘ stage five ’ guidance, on the return of fans to elite sports events.
The guidance has been developed with UK Sport and in close consultation with the Deputy Chief Medical Officers of England, Public Health England, the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, Police and medical representatives across Olympic, Paralympic and professional sports governing bodies.
It is designed for competition delivery partners and venue operators and marks the final piece of Government guidance for the resumption of elite sport. The guidance will outline the conditions, facilities and processes that will need to be implemented for the safe return of spectators to competitive sporting events, including tight restrictions on numbers in the short-term.
Further guidance outlining the licensing obligations for sports stadia and how venue operators must calculate safe capacities in line with social distancing restrictions will be published by the Sports Grounds Safety Authority.
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: "For months, millions of us have felt the void of being unable to go to the match to support our team or attend a top-class sporting event.
"So I am pleased that we are now able to move forward with a plan to help venues safely reopen their doors to fans.
"I recognise that not every sport, team or club has the benefit of huge commercial revenue, and it is often their dedicated fans that are the lifeblood which helps keep them going.
"By working closely with sports and medical experts, these pilots will help ensure the safe return of fans to stadia.
"Although it will remain some time before venues are full to capacity, this is a major step in the right direction for the resumption of live spectator sport across the country.
The stage five guidance makes clear that the following operating standards must be in place for spectators until further notice:
Prior to any ticket purchase, competition delivery partners should provide spectators with information on the steps being implemented to minimise the risk of Covid-19, including any modifications being made to the venue.
Spectators must agree to a new code of behaviour obliging them to take full responsibility for themselves and others by not attending if they have any symptoms or have potentially been exposed to someone with coronavirus. Anyone attending an event will also be advised to consider if they are putting themselves at higher risk because of their general state of health or any other risk factors.
Carefully controlled bookings should be in place, so that social distancing is observed in seating arrangements, alongside a minimising of the numbers of tickets sold to a predefined safe capacity, in accordance with regulator guidance.
Spectators must be supported to avoid public transport, including through parking facilities, bike and walking routes. However a transport management plan with local and national providers should be in place to increase service frequency, where needed.
A crowd management plan should be in place, incorporating the controlled entry and exit of spectators (including staggering entry times), and one-way systems inside the venue to maintain social distancing and minimise the risk of crowding.
Additional hygiene facilities, such as hand washing and sanitiser stations, should be provided, particularly at entry and exit points to the competition venue and in seating/standing areas.
Screens or barriers should be used to separate people from each other when social distancing cannot be maintained for catering and retail, such as buying programmes and merchandise, or betting.
Signage and floor markings should be developed both inside and outside competition venues to enforce social distancing, seating plans, one-way systems and queuing requirements.
Spectator medical requirements should be considered, such as additional isolation rooms, and screening when entering the competition venue.
Let us know in the survey below. If it fails to load click here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Police want to speak to these men after woman raped in her bedroom

Police want to speak to two men after a woman was raped in her bedroom in Wigan .
Officers say they were called to a property in Tyldesley at 1.30am on Tuesday , July 14 , following the horrific incident .
They believe the victim had met two men in the early hours of the morning around Elliott Street .
They walked her to her home and she was later raped in her own bedroom .
An investigation has been launched but so far nobody has been arrested .
Police say the woman is being supported by specialist officers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Wigan district , has called on anyone who knows the two men pictured to get in contact with police .
“ Whilst the victim is being supported by specialist services , a thorough and fast paced investigation is underway , '' he said .
“ As part of our enquiries , we would like to speak to the men shown in these CCTV images so I would appeal to them or anyone who can help us identify them to get in touch .
“ I would also like to use this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information which may assist us with our investigation to contact us without hesitation.
” Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 7264 quoting 183 of 14/07/20 .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the MyWigan newsletter for the biggest stories direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the MyWigan newsletter for the biggest stories direct to your inbox
Police want to speak to two men after a woman was raped in her bedroom in Wigan.
Officers say they were called to a property in Tyldesley at 1.30am on Tuesday, July 14, following the horrific incident.
They believe the victim had met two men in the early hours of the morning around Elliott Street. They walked her to her home and she was later raped in her own bedroom.
An investigation has been launched but so far nobody has been arrested.
Police say the woman is being supported by specialist officers.
Detective Inspector Neil Lawless, of GMP’s Wigan district, has called on anyone who knows the two men pictured to get in contact with police.
“Whilst the victim is being supported by specialist services, a thorough and fast paced investigation is underway," he said.
“As part of our enquiries, we would like to speak to the men shown in these CCTV images so I would appeal to them or anyone who can help us identify them to get in touch.
“I would also like to use this opportunity to appeal to anyone else with information which may assist us with our investigation to contact us without hesitation.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 7264 quoting 183 of 14/07/20.
Alternatively, call the independent charity – Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Seven Man United players send messages to Timothy Fosu-Mensah

Timothy Fosu-Mensah was inundated with messages of support from his Manchester United teammates after returning to the side against Crystal Palace .
The 22-year-old made his first United appearance in more than three years , playing at left-back in the 2-0 win at Selhurst Park in the absence of injured pair Luke Shaw and Brandon Williams .
It was a solid display from Fosu-Mensah , as United 's defence kept Palace at bay , recording a clean sheet and laying the foundations for Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial to grab crucial goals .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side are now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ push for a top four finish .
Fosu-Mensah took to Instagram after the game to post about his return , with Shaw , Martial , Aaron Wan-Bissaka , Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes all among the players to comment by welcoming him back .
He said : `` +3 Manchester United .
Happy to be back playing for the club after 3 years .
Nice to be back at Selhurst tho [ sic ] . ''
Fernandes said : `` Well done Timooooooo '' followed by a strong arm emoji .
Martial said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while fellow defenders Eric Bailly and Teden Mengi also added their comments of support .
It remains to be seen whether Fosu-Mensah will build on the performance , as United prepare to face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final this weekend .
Williams took a bang to the head against Southampton earlier in the week , while Shaw has been struggling with a twisted ankle .
Both players are doubts and Solskjaer could again turn to the Dutchman , whose previous United outing came in May 2017 against Palace .
He then spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eagles , then joined Fulham on loan last season where he picked up a serious ACL injury .

Timothy Fosu-Mensah was inundated with messages of support from his Manchester United teammates after returning to the side against Crystal Palace.
The 22-year-old made his first United appearance in more than three years, playing at left-back in the 2-0 win at Selhurst Park in the absence of injured pair Luke Shaw and Brandon Williams.
It was a solid display from Fosu-Mensah, as United's defence kept Palace at bay, recording a clean sheet and laying the foundations for Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial to grab crucial goals. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side are now unbeaten in 19 games and continue their push for a top four finish.
Fosu-Mensah took to Instagram after the game to post about his return, with Shaw, Martial, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes all among the players to comment by welcoming him back.
He said: "+3 Manchester United. Happy to be back playing for the club after 3 years. Nice to be back at Selhurst tho [sic]."
Fernandes said: "Well done Timooooooo" followed by a strong arm emoji. Martial said "well done my bro", while fellow defenders Eric Bailly and Teden Mengi also added their comments of support.
It remains to be seen whether Fosu-Mensah will build on the performance, as United prepare to face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final this weekend.
Williams took a bang to the head against Southampton earlier in the week, while Shaw has been struggling with a twisted ankle. Both players are doubts and Solskjaer could again turn to the Dutchman, whose previous United outing came in May 2017 against Palace. He then spent the 2017/18 campaign on loan with the Eagles, then joined Fulham on loan last season where he picked up a serious ACL injury.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Residents told to stay indoors in 'gun threat' scare - man led away in handcuffs

Two police officers were injured after a man threatened them while claiming to have a gun .
Officers swooped on Ratcliffe Towers in Stockport at around 10.30pm last night ( Thursday ) following reports of a disturbance .
It was when they arrived at the scene on Bosden Fold that the man threatened police .
Police carried out a search , and concluded that the man 'did not have a firearm ' , a spokesman for the force said .
Residents living in the area said they were told to stay indoors when they spotted a commotion outside .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a van in handcuffs , surrounded by officers .
In the footage , the man was heard shouting as he was bundled into the back of the police vehicle .
A loud thud could be heard in the video .
A man , aged 41 , was arrested a short time later on suspicion of theft , assault and threats to kill .
A woman , aged 44 , was also arrested on suspicion of assault and criminal damage .
A spokesman for GMP said : `` Shortly before 10.35pm on Thursday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ratcliffe Towers in Stockport to reports of a disturbance .
`` A man was making threats towards officers and stated that he had a firearm .
After assessment it was confirmed that the man was not in possession of a firearm .
`` Two officers suffered minor injuries during the incident .
`` The man – aged 41 - was arrested a short time later on suspicion of theft , assault and threats to kill .
A woman aged 44 was also arrested on suspicion of assault and criminal damage .
Both remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokeswoman for North West Ambulance Service confirmed they were called to Hillgate , a neighbouring road , at 11.30pm .
They said : `` Someone has taken unwell .
We sent a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance .
Police were on the scene .
A patient was taken to hospital . ''
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 , quoting incident number 3039 of July 16 .
Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyStockport newsletter to keep up with all the top stories
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyStockport newsletter to keep up with all the top stories
Two police officers were injured after a man threatened them while claiming to have a gun.
Officers swooped on Ratcliffe Towers in Stockport at around 10.30pm last night (Thursday) following reports of a disturbance.
It was when they arrived at the scene on Bosden Fold that the man threatened police.
The officers suffered minor injuries, a GMP spokesman said.
Police carried out a search, and concluded that the man 'did not have a firearm', a spokesman for the force said.
Residents living in the area said they were told to stay indoors when they spotted a commotion outside.
A man was later filmed being led into a van in handcuffs, surrounded by officers.
In the footage, the man was heard shouting as he was bundled into the back of the police vehicle.
A loud thud could be heard in the video.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
A man, aged 41, was arrested a short time later on suspicion of theft, assault and threats to kill.
A woman, aged 44, was also arrested on suspicion of assault and criminal damage.
A spokesman for GMP said: "Shortly before 10.35pm on Thursday, July 16, police were called to Ratcliffe Towers in Stockport to reports of a disturbance.
"A man was making threats towards officers and stated that he had a firearm. After assessment it was confirmed that the man was not in possession of a firearm.
"Two officers suffered minor injuries during the incident.
"The man – aged 41 - was arrested a short time later on suspicion of theft, assault and threats to kill. A woman aged 44 was also arrested on suspicion of assault and criminal damage. Both remain in custody for questioning."
A spokeswoman for North West Ambulance Service confirmed they were called to Hillgate, a neighbouring road, at 11.30pm.
They said: "Someone has taken unwell. We sent a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance. Police were on the scene. A patient was taken to hospital."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting incident number 3039 of July 16.
Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Man United are laying the foundations for their next great partnership

When Manchester United sold Romelu Lukaku without signing a replacement last summer there was n't exactly an outpouring of faith in his two replacements in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's squad .
With Lukaku moving to Inter Milan for £75million and United failing to land a new centre forward before the deadline , it was down to Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial to share the burden that the departure of the Belgian would create .
Lukaku was n't a convincing United No .
9 but he did look to be the most natural and regular goalscorer in the squad and his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that up .
Rashford and Martial were attackers of promise but neither looked at home leading the line and their goalscoring records left plenty to be desired .
Between them they 'd scored 93 goals in 344 appearances for the club before the start of this season , a pretty paltry rate of a goal every 3.7 games .
That was nowhere near good enough to be United 's main men , but Solskjaer had faith he was building a system that would suit both and they also had improvement to come , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that improvement to be so rapid .
Now Rashford , 22 , and Martial , 24 , have the potential to become one of United 's best strike partnerships of the Premier League era .
Certainly one of the most telepathic .
When Rashford 's first-time pass set Martial up for the second goal at Crystal Palace on Thursday night it was the seventh time they 'd combined for a Premier League goal this season , a record for United in the Premier League .
That goal also meant Martial kept pace with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charts for the club , with both scoring 22 times this season .
That they find themselves neck and neck for goals is no surprise is when you consider their remarkable record when starting games together .
Injuries have forced both to go it alone at times this season and when they 've done that they 've taken on the pressure diligently , but it 's when they play together that you really see the best of them .
The game at Selhurst Park was the 24th time this season they 've started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they 've both found the back of the net , a remarkable record , and in total those games have seen them score 31 of their 44 goals .
United are winning 58 % of games the deadly duo start together , and only 48 % of games when they do n't .
It 's clear to see that they look a much more vibrant side when that partnership is in tandem .
That they have developed such an understanding is something of a surprise , given they are quite similar players .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ left before this season , yet both probably fancied themselves as a centre forward as well .
Last season it was Rashford who often played through the middle , with Martial out wide , but that changed this season .
Solskjaer handed the vacant No .
9 shirt to Martial and the Frenchman has shouldered the responsibility expertly , growing in confidence as the season has progressed .
Rashford 's station on the left and their general work as part of a front three , with Mason Greenwood coming of age on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ natural strike partnership like Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole or Wayne Rooney and Ruud van Nistelrooy , perhaps they 're more Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo , a more modern duo who work all over the pitch rather than in the confines of the penalty box .
But on the evidence of their shared breakthrough seasons they have the potential to be remembered amongst the best .
This season they 've scored 44 goals in 81 games , a rate of a goal every 1.8 games .
It 's a huge improvement on their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When they start together it 's a goal every 1.5 games .
The evidence suggests they are better together .
Bruno Fernandes is rightly lauded as the catalyst to United 's attacking improvement in 2020 , but the Portuguese playmaker needs forwards making the right runs and finishing the chances he creates .
The development of Rashford , Martial and Greenwood should n't be overlooked here .
With goals has come confidence .
Martial 's stunning individual strike against Southampton and Rashford 's cooly taken goal at Palace over the last week are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their top of the game right now .
The challenge at United is to maintain that over a number of seasons , but with age on their side the first glimpse of a Rashford/Martial partnership this season has been hugely encouraging .

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
When Manchester United sold Romelu Lukaku without signing a replacement last summer there wasn't exactly an outpouring of faith in his two replacements in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad.
With Lukaku moving to Inter Milan for £75million and United failing to land a new centre forward before the deadline, it was down to Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial to share the burden that the departure of the Belgian would create.
Lukaku wasn't a convincing United No. 9 but he did look to be the most natural and regular goalscorer in the squad and his record at Inter Milan this season stands that up.
Rashford and Martial were attackers of promise but neither looked at home leading the line and their goalscoring records left plenty to be desired. Between them they'd scored 93 goals in 344 appearances for the club before the start of this season, a pretty paltry rate of a goal every 3.7 games.
That was nowhere near good enough to be United's main men, but Solskjaer had faith he was building a system that would suit both and they also had improvement to come, although even he probably didn't expect that improvement to be so rapid.
Sign up to our free MUFC email newsletter Get the latest breaking Manchester United transfer news and analysis every day direct to your inbox with our free MUFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
Now Rashford, 22, and Martial, 24, have the potential to become one of United's best strike partnerships of the Premier League era. Certainly one of the most telepathic. When Rashford's first-time pass set Martial up for the second goal at Crystal Palace on Thursday night it was the seventh time they'd combined for a Premier League goal this season, a record for United in the Premier League.
That goal also meant Martial kept pace with Rashford at the top of the scoring charts for the club, with both scoring 22 times this season. That they find themselves neck and neck for goals is no surprise is when you consider their remarkable record when starting games together.
Injuries have forced both to go it alone at times this season and when they've done that they've taken on the pressure diligently, but it's when they play together that you really see the best of them.
The game at Selhurst Park was the 24th time this season they've started together. In 11 of those games they've both found the back of the net, a remarkable record, and in total those games have seen them score 31 of their 44 goals.
United are winning 58% of games the deadly duo start together, and only 48% of games when they don't. It's clear to see that they look a much more vibrant side when that partnership is in tandem.
That they have developed such an understanding is something of a surprise, given they are quite similar players. Both had looked happier coming off the left before this season, yet both probably fancied themselves as a centre forward as well. Last season it was Rashford who often played through the middle, with Martial out wide, but that changed this season. Solskjaer handed the vacant No. 9 shirt to Martial and the Frenchman has shouldered the responsibility expertly, growing in confidence as the season has progressed.
Rashford's station on the left and their general work as part of a front three, with Mason Greenwood coming of age on the right, means they aren't a natural strike partnership like Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole or Wayne Rooney and Ruud van Nistelrooy, perhaps they're more Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, a more modern duo who work all over the pitch rather than in the confines of the penalty box.
But on the evidence of their shared breakthrough seasons they have the potential to be remembered amongst the best. This season they've scored 44 goals in 81 games, a rate of a goal every 1.8 games. It's a huge improvement on their efforts until the start of 2019/20. When they start together it's a goal every 1.5 games. The evidence suggests they are better together.
Bruno Fernandes is rightly lauded as the catalyst to United's attacking improvement in 2020, but the Portuguese playmaker needs forwards making the right runs and finishing the chances he creates. The development of Rashford, Martial and Greenwood shouldn't be overlooked here.
With goals has come confidence. Martial's stunning individual strike against Southampton and Rashford's cooly taken goal at Palace over the last week are examples of how they both feel at their top of the game right now.
The challenge at United is to maintain that over a number of seasons, but with age on their side the first glimpse of a Rashford/Martial partnership this season has been hugely encouraging.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Theatres and music venues can welcome back audiences very soon

Theatres , music venues and indoor performance spaces will be allowed to welcome back live audiences from next month , the government has confirmed .
Boris Johnson announced the news today as the UK reaches the fourth step in the government 's five-stage roadmap .
Audiences will be permitted to return from August 1 , but must adhere to social distancing measures .
Performers will also have to maintain social distancing at all times .
The announcement is a major step forward for the arts industry , one of the hardest-hit sectors of the UK 's lockdown .
It follows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a £1.57 billion rescue package for arts , culture and heritage sectors .
Several pilot performances are now underway , overseen by the Department for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport , which will inform the final guidance ahead of next month 's reopenings .
Performing arts venues have received some guidance already , which includes reduced capacities , social distancing markers , and increased cleaning .
Culture secretary Oliver Dowden said : `` The UK ’ s performing arts sector is renowned across the world and I am pleased that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its doors reopened to the public with social distancing .
`` From August indoor theatres , music venues and performance spaces will safely welcome audiences back across the country .
`` This is a welcome step in the path to a return to normal and , coupled with our £1.57 billion rescue package , will help secure the future of this important sector . ''
The safety guidance published so far includes the following measures : • Reduced venue capacity and limited ticket sales to ensure social distancing can be maintained • Tickets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to use e-tickets to reduce contact and help with track and trace • Venues should have clearly communicated social distancing marking in place in areas where queues form and adopt a limited entry approach • Performances should be scheduled to allow sufficient time to undertake deep cleaning before the next audience arrives • Performers , conductors , musicians must observe social distancing wherever possible

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
Theatres, music venues and indoor performance spaces will be allowed to welcome back live audiences from next month, the government has confirmed.
Boris Johnson announced the news today as the UK reaches the fourth step in the government's five-stage roadmap.
Audiences will be permitted to return from August 1, but must adhere to social distancing measures.
Performers will also have to maintain social distancing at all times.
The announcement is a major step forward for the arts industry, one of the hardest-hit sectors of the UK's lockdown.
(Image: Getty Images)
It follows the government's announcement earlier this month of a £1.57 billion rescue package for arts, culture and heritage sectors.
Several pilot performances are now underway, overseen by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, which will inform the final guidance ahead of next month's reopenings.
Performing arts venues have received some guidance already, which includes reduced capacities, social distancing markers, and increased cleaning.
Culture secretary Oliver Dowden said: "The UK’s performing arts sector is renowned across the world and I am pleased that we are making real progress in getting its doors reopened to the public with social distancing.
"From August indoor theatres, music venues and performance spaces will safely welcome audiences back across the country.
"This is a welcome step in the path to a return to normal and, coupled with our £1.57 billion rescue package, will help secure the future of this important sector."
The safety guidance published so far includes the following measures:
Reduced venue capacity and limited ticket sales to ensure social distancing can be maintained
Tickets will be purchased online and venues encouraged to use e-tickets to reduce contact and help with track and trace
Venues should have clearly communicated social distancing marking in place in areas where queues form and adopt a limited entry approach
Increased deep cleaning of auditoriums
Performances should be scheduled to allow sufficient time to undertake deep cleaning before the next audience arrives
Performers, conductors, musicians must observe social distancing wherever possible
Manchester theatre HOME has welcomed the news - but won't be rushing to reopen.
John Gilchrist, executive director of the First Street arts centre, said: “We’ve been working closely with colleagues across the country on ensuring theatres can reopen to the public as soon as it is safe and economically viable.
"We welcome this next step in getting work back on stages across the city, and are following the pilot events with interest.
"HOME is still on target to open to the public on 4 September, and we are determined to bring work to our theatres as soon as possible in the autumn.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Bury Council does not have capacity to draw up plan for town centre's future

The council does not have the capacity to produce a new masterplan for the future of Bury town centre , the local authority ’ s leader has told a committee .
Bury Council wants to update its masterplan to provide a “ clear direction ” for the town centre , to improve business confidence and encourage investment .
This comes as the local authority sets out its regeneration strategy for Bury and Radcliffe and sets out its economy recovery plans post-pandemic .
But council leader Eamonn O ’ Brien was asked whether the town hall has the staff to produce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday .
He said : “ Do we have the capacity ?
No .
But what that doesn ’ t necessarily mean is we have to spend a huge amount of money and a lot of time on pulling it together .
“ The team are doing a fantastic job on a lot of this .
It ’ s not denigrating anyone ’ s ability , it is purely about capacity on some of this .
“ Pulling it together , looking at it , we can certainly bring something back , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stage is probably for the autumn .
“ We can come back in November with , I hope , some real progress .
Hopefully , particularly to do with Radcliffe , but especially on the Bury one as well.
” The overview and scrutiny committee also heard about the council ’ s plans to boost Bury Market which reopened for non-essential retail on July 4 .
Bury Council had already agreed to spend £50,000 to develop a masterplan for the market which includes drawing up a business plan for a new indoor hall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the council wants to remodel the market area and could build a new “ flexi hall ” next to Bury Interchange .
Director of economic regeneration and capital growth Paul Lakin revealed that “ highly-skilled ” architects have been invited to do some early design and cost-planning work for the new indoor hall at Bury Market .
The tendering process is expected to end in the next two to three weeks .
Cabinet member for cultural economy Jane Black told the committee that the council , which owns Bury Market , has lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holiday for traders .
She said : “ We all love Bury Market and we know that it has a high reputation locally and , in the region , and certainly they have been hit quite hard by the lockdown as have many , many businesses across our town .
“ Bury ’ s Market support package is seen as generous compared to other nearby markets .
“ But I understand that traders feel aggrieved that they would like more.
” Regeneration proposals for Radcliffe have already been published and are currently going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on August 3 .
They include creating a central public hub within the town centre , new leisure facilities and refurbishing the Market Chambers building .
It also proposes “ opening up ” the river , producing a “ focussed retail strategy ” and creating cultural initiatives as well as endorsing a new secondary school .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Joseph Timan, Seamus McDonnell)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the free MyBury newsletter to get the best stories direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the free MyBury newsletter to get the best stories direct to your inbox
The council does not have the capacity to produce a new masterplan for the future of Bury town centre, the local authority’s leader has told a committee.
Bury Council wants to update its masterplan to provide a “clear direction” for the town centre, to improve business confidence and encourage investment.
This comes as the local authority sets out its regeneration strategy for Bury and Radcliffe and sets out its economy recovery plans post-pandemic.
But council leader Eamonn O’Brien was asked whether the town hall has the staff to produce the new masterplan at a scrutiny committee on Wednesday.
He said: “Do we have the capacity? No. But what that doesn’t necessarily mean is we have to spend a huge amount of money and a lot of time on pulling it together.
“The team are doing a fantastic job on a lot of this. It’s not denigrating anyone’s ability, it is purely about capacity on some of this.
“Pulling it together, looking at it, we can certainly bring something back, the best I can say at this stage is probably for the autumn.
“We can come back in November with, I hope, some real progress. Hopefully, particularly to do with Radcliffe, but especially on the Bury one as well.”
The overview and scrutiny committee also heard about the council’s plans to boost Bury Market which reopened for non-essential retail on July 4.
Bury Council had already agreed to spend £50,000 to develop a masterplan for the market which includes drawing up a business plan for a new indoor hall.
Working with Millgate Shopping Centre, the council wants to remodel the market area and could build a new “flexi hall” next to Bury Interchange.
Director of economic regeneration and capital growth Paul Lakin revealed that “highly-skilled” architects have been invited to do some early design and cost-planning work for the new indoor hall at Bury Market.
The tendering process is expected to end in the next two to three weeks.
Cabinet member for cultural economy Jane Black told the committee that the council, which owns Bury Market, has lost £700,000 of income through the 14-week rent holiday for traders.
She said: “We all love Bury Market and we know that it has a high reputation locally and, in the region, and certainly they have been hit quite hard by the lockdown as have many, many businesses across our town.
“Bury’s Market support package is seen as generous compared to other nearby markets.
“But I understand that traders feel aggrieved that they would like more.”
Sign up to the free MyBury email newsletter Get news updates from Bury direct to your email inbox with the free MyBury newsletter. Simply click on this link, enter your email address, and select 'MyBury News'
Regeneration proposals for Radcliffe have already been published and are currently going through a public consultation process which ends on August 3.
They include creating a central public hub within the town centre, new leisure facilities and refurbishing the Market Chambers building.
It also proposes “opening up” the river, producing a “focussed retail strategy” and creating cultural initiatives as well as endorsing a new secondary school.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Will families be able to spend Christmas together?

Many families will be wondering if they will be able to spend Christmas together as lockdown restrictions are eased .
At a Downing Street press conference today , Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined a fresh road map as the UK exits lockdown .
Questioned over families being allowed to spend Christmas together in 2020 , he expressed cautious optimism with one important caveat .
He said it depends on the success of the nation in continuing to defeat the virus as we head into the potentially tricky winter months of October and November , which could see a second wave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flu season when the NHS is under most pressure .
Mr Johnson announced a £3 billion injection of funding for the NHS to ensure it is able to cope with winter pressures .
He also gave local authorities more powers over local lockdowns - such as the one in Leicester - to tackle outbreaks of the virus .
`` The latest ONS data shows prevalence and new infections to be stable and low .
Asked how optimistic he was that families could spend Christmas together , Boris Johnson replied : “ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the best , that ’ s what I ’ m trying to set out today .
“ A plan where we hope for the best but plan for the worst , and clearly the steps that we ’ re taking for September , October , November , they ’ re all conditional on our continued ability to defeat the virus.
” So the reality is , if the UK is able to control the virus in winter months then families will be able to spend Christmas together .
He also announced the potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus is under control .
Which adds to the sense of optimism over family Christmases .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Many families will be wondering if they will be able to spend Christmas together as lockdown restrictions are eased.
At a Downing Street press conference today, Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined a fresh road map as the UK exits lockdown.
Questioned over families being allowed to spend Christmas together in 2020, he expressed cautious optimism with one important caveat.
He said it depends on the success of the nation in continuing to defeat the virus as we head into the potentially tricky winter months of October and November, which could see a second wave of coronavirus cases along with the usual flu season when the NHS is under most pressure.
Mr Johnson announced a £3 billion injection of funding for the NHS to ensure it is able to cope with winter pressures. He also gave local authorities more powers over local lockdowns - such as the one in Leicester - to tackle outbreaks of the virus.
"The latest ONS data shows prevalence and new infections to be stable and low.
Asked how optimistic he was that families could spend Christmas together, Boris Johnson replied: “It’s very important that we hope for the best, that’s what I’m trying to set out today.
“A plan where we hope for the best but plan for the worst, and clearly the steps that we’re taking for September, October, November, they’re all conditional on our continued ability to defeat the virus.”
So the reality is, if the UK is able to control the virus in winter months then families will be able to spend Christmas together.
He also announced the potential removal of social distancing in November if the virus is under control. Which adds to the sense of optimism over family Christmases.
Let us know what you think about the latest lockdown announcement in the survey below. If it fails to load click here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Wedding receptions can resume next month - but there are restrictions

Boris Johnson has announced that wedding receptions can resume from August 1 .
While nuptial ceremonies in places of worship were permitted from July 4 , guests can now attend wedding receptions .
But there is a catch as only 30 people are allowed to attend , and social distancing measures will have to be followed .
Speaking at a press conference from Downing Street , The Prime Minister revealed a string of leisure facilities that can reopen from August 1 including bowling , skating , and casinos .
“ We will also allow wedding receptions for up to 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , larger gatherings and live performances could open in autumn - subject to the success of pilots .
Mr Johnson added : “ Nightclubs and soft play areas will sadly need to remain closed for now – although this will be kept under review.
” Currently , as part of places of worship reopening from July 4 , services including weddings can go ahead with a maximum of 30 people , subject to social distancing .
Celebrations can only take place when people follow the guidance of six people outdoors , support bubbles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Boris Johnson said he hoped for a “ more significant return to normality by November ” with a review over social distancing guidelines .
He announced that changes to allow close contact between family and friends could come in time for Christmas .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Boris Johnson has announced that wedding receptions can resume from August 1.
While nuptial ceremonies in places of worship were permitted from July 4, guests can now attend wedding receptions.
But there is a catch as only 30 people are allowed to attend, and social distancing measures will have to be followed.
Speaking at a press conference from Downing Street, The Prime Minister revealed a string of leisure facilities that can reopen from August 1 including bowling, skating, and casinos.
“We will also allow wedding receptions for up to 30 people,” he said.
Meanwhile, larger gatherings and live performances could open in autumn - subject to the success of pilots.
Mr Johnson added: “Nightclubs and soft play areas will sadly need to remain closed for now – although this will be kept under review.”
Currently, as part of places of worship reopening from July 4, services including weddings can go ahead with a maximum of 30 people, subject to social distancing.
Celebrations can only take place when people follow the guidance of six people outdoors, support bubbles, or two households indoors.
Meanwhile, Boris Johnson said he hoped for a “more significant return to normality by November” with a review over social distancing guidelines.
He announced that changes to allow close contact between family and friends could come in time for Christmas.
Let us know what you think about the latest lockdown announcement in the survey below. If it fails to load click here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Pep Guardiola Man City press conference LIVE

Pep Guardiola will speak to the media as Manchester City 's attentions turn to Saturday 's FA Cup semi-final clash @ @ @ @ @ Though City have n't had much of anything to play for in the Premier League @ @ @ @ @ have started to gather momentum again with three victories on the spin against Newcastle , @ @ @ @ @ good form and performances will have kept the players sharp and ready to jump back @ @ @ @ @ and they 'll be hoping to advance past the Gunners as they seek to retain @ @ @ @ @ Guardiola 's side comfortably defeated Arsenal in the first game back after the break but @ @ @ @ @ received a massive confidence boost after defeating newly crowned champions Liverpool on Wednesday .
City @ @ @ @ @ home kit for the clash , which has taken inspiration from the mosaic artwork that @ @ @ @ @ .
Follow for all the Manchester City news you need throughout the day .

Pep Guardiola spoke to the media as Manchester City's attentions turn to Saturday's FA Cup semi-final clash with Arsenal at Wembley.
Though City haven't had much of anything to play for in the Premier League in recent weeks, they have started to gather momentum again with three victories on the spin against Newcastle, Brighton and Bournemouth.
The good form and performances will have kept the players sharp and ready to jump back into an important fixture, and they'll be hoping to advance past the Gunners as they seek to retain their FA Cup.
Pep Guardiola's side comfortably defeated Arsenal in the first game back after the break but the North London club have received a massive confidence boost after defeating newly crowned champions Liverpool on Wednesday.
City will wear their brand new home kit for the clash, which has taken inspiration from the mosaic artwork that can be found throughout Manchester.
Look back over all the Manchester City news you need throughout the day.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--The venues that still have to stay shut as lockdown eases further

Ice skating rinks and bowling alleys can reopen from August 1 under the next phase of lifting lockdown .
Businesses offering 'close contact ' services such as beauticians will also be allowed to resume from next month , Boris Johnson confirmed today .
But there 's still no end in sight to the current restrictions for a number of businesses today .
Nightclubs and soft play centres must remain closed indefinitely , with the Prime Minister giving no indication of when they may be allowed to reopen .
`` From 1 August , we will reopen most remaining leisure settings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ casinos , and we will enable all close contact services such as beauticians to resume , '' he said in a televised address today .
`` Nightclubs and soft play areas will sadly need to remain closed for now – although this will be kept under review . ''
It could be better news for live music venues and theatres , however , as Mr Johnson said performances may be able to resume from August 1 .
`` We will restart indoor performances to a live audience , subject to the success of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ larger gatherings in venues like sports stadia , with a view to wider reopening in the autumn , '' he said .
Schools , colleges and nurseries will reopen full-time from September , and universities are also working to reopen , he said .
Sports stadiums will be able to welcome back fans from October , when conferences and business events will also be allowed to go ahead .
But he warned : `` These changes must be done in a Covid Secure way , subject to the successful outcome of pilots .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be ' a more significant return to normality ' by November and 'possibly in time for Christmas ' .
`` Throughout this period , we will look to allow more close contact between friends and family when we can , '' he said .
`` It is my strong and sincere hope that we will be able to review the outstanding restrictions and allow a more significant return to normality from November at the earliest – possibly in time for Christmas . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the M.E.N.'s Manchester Family newsletter for all the latest from back to school news to ways to entertain the kids
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the M.E.N.'s Manchester Family newsletter for all the latest from back to school news to ways to entertain the kids
Ice skating rinks and bowling alleys can reopen from August 1 under the next phase of lifting lockdown.
Businesses offering 'close contact' services such as beauticians will also be allowed to resume from next month, Boris Johnson confirmed today.
But there's still no end in sight to the current restrictions for a number of businesses today.
Nightclubs and soft play centres must remain closed indefinitely, with the Prime Minister giving no indication of when they may be allowed to reopen.
"From 1 August, we will reopen most remaining leisure settings, namely bowling, skating rinks and casinos, and we will enable all close contact services such as beauticians to resume," he said in a televised address today.
"Nightclubs and soft play areas will sadly need to remain closed for now – although this will be kept under review."
It could be better news for live music venues and theatres, however, as Mr Johnson said performances may be able to resume from August 1.
"We will restart indoor performances to a live audience, subject to the success of pilots, and we will also pilot larger gatherings in venues like sports stadia, with a view to wider reopening in the autumn," he said.
Schools, colleges and nurseries will reopen full-time from September, and universities are also working to reopen, he said.
Sports stadiums will be able to welcome back fans from October, when conferences and business events will also be allowed to go ahead.
But he warned: "These changes must be done in a Covid Secure way, subject to the successful outcome of pilots."
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Mr Johnson said he hoped there could be 'a more significant return to normality' by November and 'possibly in time for Christmas'.
"Throughout this period, we will look to allow more close contact between friends and family when we can," he said.
"It is my strong and sincere hope that we will be able to review the outstanding restrictions and allow a more significant return to normality from November at the earliest – possibly in time for Christmas."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Everything being done to tackle Covid-19 during winter and avoid a second wave

Boris Johnson unveiled a number of further measures against coronavirus in the run up to winter .
The Prime Minister announced that they are increasing testing capacity , rolling out a new flu vaccination programme , and are injecting an extra £3billion into NHS funding .
Speaking from a press conference at Downing Street , Mr Johnson said that more needs to be done in the colder months as people are likely to show coronavirus-like symptoms as a result of seasonal illness .
He announced a new testing capacity of at least half a million antigen tests a day - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the end of October .
Mr Johnson said : “ Demand for testing is not the only challenge that winter will bring .
“ It is possible that the virus will be more virulent in the winter months – and it is certain that the NHS will face the usual , annual winter pressures.
” “ So we are making sure we are ready for winter , and planning for the worst , '' Mr Johnson continued .
“ But even as we plan for the worst , I strongly believe we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That means looking ahead with optimism – now extending our plan to lift the remaining national measures which have restricted our lives since March so we can get back to something closer to normal life.
” The government has increased the number of ventilators available to patients across the UK – up from 9,000 before the pandemic to nearly 30,000 now .
Mr Johnson also confirmed that they have “ substantially increased the pipeline ” of Personal Protective Equipment ( PPE ) for the NHS and social care .
A new flu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which is the “ biggest in our history ” .
While NHS England will receive an additional £3 billion of funding , Scotland , Wales , and Northern Ireland will also receive extra funds .
“ This will allow the NHS to continue to use the extra hospital capacity acquired from the independent sector and also to maintain the Nightingale hospitals until the end of March , ” Mr Johnson added .
This new funding comes on top of the additional £30 billion of funding for health and social care that was @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for political news and analysis from outside the Westminster bubble
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for political news and analysis from outside the Westminster bubble
Boris Johnson unveiled a number of further measures against coronavirus in the run up to winter.
The Prime Minister announced that they are increasing testing capacity, rolling out a new flu vaccination programme, and are injecting an extra £3billion into NHS funding.
Speaking from a press conference at Downing Street, Mr Johnson said that more needs to be done in the colder months as people are likely to show coronavirus-like symptoms as a result of seasonal illness.
(Image: PA)
He announced a new testing capacity of at least half a million antigen tests a day - 3.5 million antigen tests a week – by the end of October.
Mr Johnson said: “Demand for testing is not the only challenge that winter will bring.
“It is possible that the virus will be more virulent in the winter months – and it is certain that the NHS will face the usual, annual winter pressures.”
“So we are making sure we are ready for winter, and planning for the worst," Mr Johnson continued.
“But even as we plan for the worst, I strongly believe we should also hope for the best.
“That means looking ahead with optimism – now extending our plan to lift the remaining national measures which have restricted our lives since March so we can get back to something closer to normal life.”
The government has increased the number of ventilators available to patients across the UK – up from 9,000 before the pandemic to nearly 30,000 now.
(Image: Getty Images)
Mr Johnson also confirmed that they have “substantially increased the pipeline” of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the NHS and social care.
A new flu vaccination programme will also be rolled out, which is the “biggest in our history”.
While NHS England will receive an additional £3 billion of funding, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will also receive extra funds.
“This will allow the NHS to continue to use the extra hospital capacity acquired from the independent sector and also to maintain the Nightingale hospitals until the end of March,” Mr Johnson added.
This new funding comes on top of the additional £30 billion of funding for health and social care that was previously announced.
Let us know what you think about the latest lockdown announcement in the survey below. If it fails to load click here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-17--Solskjaer now has three different game plans at Manchester United

You can no longer accuse Manchester United of being one-dimensional under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer .
For far too long , United were something of a one-trick pony , unable to win games by any method other than via the counter-attack .
Their midfield and forward line did not function when denied space by defensively disciplined sides , while their defence was vulnerable to set pieces or opposing sides ' counter attacks .
That was evidenced against Crystal Palace earlier this season when United were beaten 2-1 at home .
But plenty of other frustrating games summed up the nature of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Newcastle away , Aston Villa at home , Burnley at home .
It was infuriating and , in truth , plain worrying .
It 's no exaggeration to say that Solskjaer has improved United from front to back .
Even David de Gea would appear to have returned to something like his old self , with United 's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace exhibiting in patches the best of this side in all facets .
Okay , it was n't anything like the complete performances we have witnessed from United against Sheffield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the restart , but it showed they are up for the fight in any game .
In previous similar contests this season , they would surely have dropped points .
And as Solskjaer prepares his team for a different kind of test in the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea this weekend , it must be heartening for the manager to know his team have become adaptable and versatile .
`` You do n't expect anything else from a Roy Hodgson team ; well organised , some very good individuals out there and you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Solskjaer said after grinding out the win at Selhurst Park .
`` We did n't really get going , especially before half-time .
But in moments we show what we can do and it 's great to watch that tempo when the ball goes forward , the runs go forward , movement of the ball , so two fantastic goals . ''
Not playing well but winning ?
It 's exactly what Sir Alex Ferguson 's United used to do , though as Solskjaer said the best teams always create dangerous moments .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and this time they had the quality to make them count , largely through the razor-sharp Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford , who were threatening all night long - even if some of their teammates were off the boil .
But while Rashford and Martial were making chances for themselves and each other , they would have been isolated without the service of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba .
It 's the addition of those two players to the United team that has changed everything , now allowing Solskjaer 's side to dominate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also to step up in the big moments .
The Norwegian can satisfy himself in the knowledge that even if Fernandes and Pogba do n't boss a game - and they can not do it all the time - they 've got the talent to hurt teams .
Andreas Pereira was United 's No.10 earlier in the campaign and he was n't capable of recording anything like the assist numbers that Fernandes is now posting .
Whether United will be able to pass Chelsea off the Wembley pitch on Sunday remains to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't , they can either battle toe-to-toe with Frank Lampard 's side and pounce in the clutch moments , as they did versus Palace ; or they can sit deep and counter with sheer pace , which proved a successful method against the big sides earlier in the season .
Rashford and Martial will be vital to all three methods , as will the precision passing of a much-improved midfield and a defence that , despite its critics , has functioned well all season .
Only Liverpool have conceded fewer goals .
Solskjaer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on counter-attacking and a solid base at the back .
But he always knew United had to offer more than that .
Plan A has become Plan C , as United have found two more ways of winning games .
Over the next few weeks they will face a range of different sides : from Chelsea to West Ham to Leicester , to a series of European opponents .
They 'll need all their gameplans at the ready .

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
You can no longer accuse Manchester United of being one-dimensional under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
For far too long, United were something of a one-trick pony, unable to win games by any method other than via the counter-attack. Their midfield and forward line did not function when denied space by defensively disciplined sides, while their defence was vulnerable to set pieces or opposing sides' counter attacks.
That was evidenced against Crystal Palace earlier this season when United were beaten 2-1 at home. But plenty of other frustrating games summed up the nature of this malfunctioning side: West Ham away, Newcastle away, Aston Villa at home, Burnley at home. It was infuriating and, in truth, plain worrying.
It's no exaggeration to say that Solskjaer has improved United from front to back. Even David de Gea would appear to have returned to something like his old self, with United's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace exhibiting in patches the best of this side in all facets.
Sign up to our free MUFC email newsletter Get the latest breaking Manchester United transfer news and analysis every day direct to your inbox with our free MUFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
Okay, it wasn't anything like the complete performances we have witnessed from United against Sheffield United, Brighton and Aston Villa since the restart, but it showed they are up for the fight in any game. In previous similar contests this season, they would surely have dropped points.
And as Solskjaer prepares his team for a different kind of test in the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea this weekend, it must be heartening for the manager to know his team have become adaptable and versatile.
"You don't expect anything else from a Roy Hodgson team; well organised, some very good individuals out there and you can see them enjoy themselves," Solskjaer said after grinding out the win at Selhurst Park.
"We didn't really get going, especially before half-time. But in moments we show what we can do and it's great to watch that tempo when the ball goes forward, the runs go forward, movement of the ball, so two fantastic goals."
Not playing well but winning? It's exactly what Sir Alex Ferguson's United used to do, though as Solskjaer said the best teams always create dangerous moments.
Those moments were all United needed, and this time they had the quality to make them count, largely through the razor-sharp Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford, who were threatening all night long - even if some of their teammates were off the boil. But while Rashford and Martial were making chances for themselves and each other, they would have been isolated without the service of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba.
It's the addition of those two players to the United team that has changed everything, now allowing Solskjaer's side to dominate games from start to finish, but also to step up in the big moments. The Norwegian can satisfy himself in the knowledge that even if Fernandes and Pogba don't boss a game - and they cannot do it all the time - they've got the talent to hurt teams.
Andreas Pereira was United's No.10 earlier in the campaign and he wasn't capable of recording anything like the assist numbers that Fernandes is now posting.
Whether United will be able to pass Chelsea off the Wembley pitch on Sunday remains to be seen. But even if they can't, they can either battle toe-to-toe with Frank Lampard's side and pounce in the clutch moments, as they did versus Palace; or they can sit deep and counter with sheer pace, which proved a successful method against the big sides earlier in the season.
Rashford and Martial will be vital to all three methods, as will the precision passing of a much-improved midfield and a defence that, despite its critics, has functioned well all season. Only Liverpool have conceded fewer goals.
Solskjaer founded this United era on pace, on counter-attacking and a solid base at the back. But he always knew United had to offer more than that.
Plan A has become Plan C, as United have found two more ways of winning games. Over the next few weeks they will face a range of different sides: from Chelsea to West Ham to Leicester, to a series of European opponents.
They'll need all their gameplans at the ready.