Last-minute report delays 50-storey Manchester tower
A 1,000-page last-minute report has delayed a decision on a 750-flat Manchester skyscraper for a second time. Meanwhile, a controversial Chorlton redevelopment gets the green light.
Category : Search result: National Planning Policy Framework
Mum who claimed £60k benefits slams Labour policy change
Cheryl Drew, once claiming £60k a year in benefits, criticises Labour's decision to abolish the two-child benefit cap, saying it removes motivation for parents.
Birmingham rejects student tower over heritage harm
Birmingham councillors have refused plans for a 263-bed student block near New Street station, citing 'less than substantial' harm to historic buildings like the Town Hall.
Labour Councillor Slams Government Planning Changes
A Birmingham Labour councillor has publicly criticised his own government's proposed planning reforms, calling them a 'disaster about to happen' that will trash vital protections.
Birmingham rejects student tower over heritage impact
Birmingham's planning committee has refused a 263-bed student accommodation tower, fearing harm to historic buildings like the Town Hall. Read the full debate.
Bank of England cuts interest rates to 3.75%
The Bank of England has cut interest rates for the first time since August, reducing Bank Rate to 3.75% in a tight 5-4 vote. Governor Andrew Bailey cited rising unemployment and moderating inflation. Read the full analysis.
Eight-flat Blackheath plan rejected on appeal
Planning Inspectorate dismisses appeal for eight apartments in Blackheath, upholding Dudley Council's refusal. The scheme was deemed too dense and a risk to pedestrian safety.
Bank of England set to cut interest rates this week
The Bank of England is expected to cut interest rates to 3.75% on Thursday after inflation dropped to an eight-month low of 3.2% in November. Read the full analysis and forecasts.
UK gardens could be lost under new Labour housing plan
New government planning proposals could see residential gardens used for new homes. Read the full details of the consultation and the political row it has sparked.
Ryanair allows two free carry-on baby items
Ryanair updates its hand luggage rules, permitting passengers to bring two items of baby equipment for free. The airline also celebrates 35 million passengers at Birmingham Airport.
Virgin Media O2 opens new Manchester city centre office
Virgin Media O2 has moved 1,100 staff to a new 'marquee' Manchester HQ. The telecoms giant says the city centre location boosts recruitment and hybrid working is here to stay. Read more.
Rochdale planning applications decided up to December 12
Rochdale Borough Council has issued decisions on a range of planning applications, including home extensions, tree removals, and commercial changes. Discover the latest outcomes for properties across the borough.
Planned Solihull Special School Scrapped After Funding Shift
A planned 150-place special school in Shirley, Solihull, has been cancelled after the government redirected £3bn to create specialist places in mainstream schools. Council leader expresses disappointment.
80-home Hockley Heath plan rejected over flooding risk
Solihull Council has refused plans for 80 new homes on green belt land in Hockley Heath, citing unresolved flood risks. Read the full story on the local planning clash.
London Congestion Charge rises to £18, EV discount cut
London's Congestion Charge will increase from £15 to £18 on January 2nd, with electric vehicles losing their full exemption. Annual rises will follow Tube fare increases.
State pension triple lock increase could backfire, experts warn
Labour's 4.1% state pension hike faces a fiscal threat from rising unemployment and a shrinking tax base. Experts warn the policy could backfire. Read the full analysis.
Unauthorised car dealership loses planning appeal
West Midlands Cars in Wednesbury has lost its appeal to continue operating. The council cited severe congestion and safety risks. Read the full timeline and outcome.
State pensioners to receive £575 extra next year
Millions of UK pensioners will see their state pension rise by £575 next year due to the triple lock. Find out how this above-inflation increase affects you and the debate it sparks.
Solihull Council's Week: Key Decisions & Plans
From a historic pub facelift to a new fly-tipping crackdown, here's your roundup of the latest news and decisions from Solihull Council this week.
Third bid for new Wolverhampton petrol station
A developer makes a third attempt to build a petrol station, shop, and car wash on a site in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, closed since 2005. Previous bids were rejected over noise and design concerns.
Capital Jingle Bell Ball 2025 Filming Notice
Attendees at Capital's Jingle Bell Ball 2025 on 6 December are advised that filming and photography will take place for promotional use by Global and event sponsors. Learn how to opt out.
AI 'Nimbyism' Service Sparks UK Planning Arms Race
A new AI tool called Objector generates planning objections in minutes, raising fears of an automated 'nimbyism' arms race that could undermine housing development across the UK.
Engineer loses transgender toilet discrimination claim
Employment tribunal dismisses engineer's claims over transgender toilet policy. Maria Kelly plans to appeal, arguing the ruling misunderstands the law. Full story here.
Starmer's China warning: Security threats and economic realism
PM Keir Starmer warns China poses 'real national security threats' but rejects binary foreign policy, balancing security with 'huge' economic opportunities. Read his full strategy.
Planning inspector dismisses Bentley Heath house appeal
A government planning inspector has upheld Solihull Council's refusal of a house extension on Widney Road, ruling it would harm the street's character. Read the full details.
McDonald's reveals why staff cannot accept tips
McDonald's enforces a strict no-tipping policy across its UK restaurants. Discover the reason behind the rule and the charitable alternative for grateful customers.
Solihull new home plan rejected by inspector
A government planning inspector has dismissed an appeal to build a four-bedroom house on a Solihull green space, siding with residents who argued it would spoil their 'lovely crescent'. Read the full ruling.
Sandwell Council's Week: Key Decisions Revealed
From a controversial 24/7 casino approval to a rejected 'battery farm' HMO and a UK-first robotic pharmacy. Get the full update on Sandwell Council's major decisions this week.
Reeves defends tax rises in Labour Budget
Chancellor Rachel Reeves refuses to apologise for breaking Labour's tax pledge as Budget pushes tax take to record high. Read the full analysis of political reactions.
Starmer: Tories want to means test state pension
PM Keir Starmer claims Conservatives plan to means test the state pension. Amid triple lock debates, Labour commits to the policy. Read the latest Westminster clash.
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