This week in Manchester:

Urgent Contracts Secured for Essential Energy and Hospital Services

Manchester City Council convened on Wednesday 15 July 2026, making swift decisions on crucial contracts to ensure the continued supply of energy and vital support for residents leaving hospital. These urgent decisions, taken due to impending contract expirations and the need for immediate service continuity, underscore the council's commitment to maintaining essential services, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Securing Energy Supplies Amidst Market Volatility

The Council approved several urgent contracts for electricity and gas supplies to the city's corporate estate, including street lighting. These decisions were necessary to avoid out-of-contract rates and ensure uninterrupted service as existing agreements neared their end. The report highlighted the volatile nature of wholesale energy markets, influenced by geopolitical events and extreme weather, making timely procurement essential to secure competitive pricing.

• Electricity for Corporate Estate: A fixed-term contract was called off for electricity supply to the council's corporate estate, including street lighting, from 1 April 2026 to 31 May 2026. Another contract was secured for the period of 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027 for associated sites. A backdated contract was also approved for electricity supply to the corporate estate from 1 June 2026 to 31 August 2026.
• Gas Supply: A fixed-term contract for gas supply to the corporate estate was secured from 1 March 2026 to 31 March 2027.

These decisions, taken by the Deputy Chief Executive and City Treasurer and approved by the Chair of Scrutiny, ensure that essential services like street lighting continue to function, contributing to public safety and the smooth operation of the city.

Temporary Home from Hospital Contract Awarded to Age UK Manchester

In a move to ensure continuity of care for residents being discharged from hospital, a temporary contract was awarded to Age UK Manchester for the Home from Hospital service. This contract, commencing on 1 July 2026, was deemed urgent due to technical procurement delays that had postponed its original January 2026 start date. The service provides crucial support to individuals as they transition back home, helping to prevent readmissions and ensuring they have the necessary assistance. The net cost to the Council is £88,000 per annum, with significant funding also provided by the NHS. This decision directly benefits older and vulnerable residents, offering them a vital safety net during a critical period.

For more details on these urgent decisions, please refer to the Council meeting documents.

Council Debates Future Direction: Housing, Equalities, and Pension Fund Investments

Manchester City Council's meeting on Wednesday 15 July 2026 saw robust debate on several key issues, including the delivery of affordable homes, confronting far-right rhetoric, and the ethical investment of pension funds. These discussions reflect the council's commitment to addressing the diverse needs and concerns of its residents.

Record Housing Delivery and Calls for Rent Controls

Councillor White and Councillor Lynch championed the council's success in delivering a record 901 affordable homes in 2025/2026. The Council resolved to continue its work with partners to build more social, council, and affordable homes. A significant call was made for cross-party support to secure funding and accelerate the Renters' Rights Team. Crucially, the motion urged the government to devolve powers for rent caps and controls in the private rented sector, a move that could provide much-needed relief to tenants facing rising housing costs.

Confronting Far-Right Rhetoric and Safeguarding Equalities

Councillor Abdullatif and Councillor Salem brought forward a motion to confront the normalisation of far-right rhetoric and safeguard Manchester's equalities framework. The motion condemned the rise in organised far-right activity, Islamophobia, and anti-migrant rhetoric, noting its amplification through social media and political figures. The Council resolved to request a scrutiny committee report on the resilience of the Council's equalities duties, write to the Greater Manchester Mayor and Combined Authority regarding a coordinated regional response, and ask the Manchester Community Safety Partnership to prioritise far-right radicalisation and hate crime. This proactive stance demonstrates the council's dedication to protecting all communities and upholding human rights.

Pension Fund Divestment from Arms Companies and Fossil Fuels

A notice of motion proposed by Councillor Asanga-Rae and seconded by Councillor Syed highlighted concerns over the Greater Manchester Pension Fund's (GMPF) investments in arms companies and fossil fuels. The motion noted that GMPF had not consulted its members on these investments and had not acted on previous calls to divest. The Council resolved to request GMPF to survey scheme members on their investment preferences, work with GMPF to devise a divestment plan, and make the survey results public. This decision reflects a growing demand for ethical investment practices that align with social and environmental values.

For more information on these policy debates, please refer to the Council meeting documents.

Licensing Panel Considers Noise, Nuisance, and Public Safety Concerns

Manchester's Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel met on Monday 13 July 2026, addressing applications that raised significant concerns regarding noise, public nuisance, and public safety, particularly in residential areas.

Faz Foods Ltd Application Faces Objections Over Late-Night Hours

An application for a new premises licence for Faz Foods Ltd, trading as Raja's, at 116 Withington Road, Manchester, M16 8FA, attracted objections from the Licensing and Out of Hours Compliance team (LOOH). The primary concern was the proposed late-night refreshment hours, extending to 1am or 2am, which LOOH argued would lead to increased noise, disturbance, and potential anti-social behaviour in a highly residential area. While the applicant agreed to reduce the proposed hours, the objections highlight the council's role in balancing business interests with the need to protect residents' amenity.

Presbar Foundry (Diecast) Licence Variation Sparks Resident Complaints

An application to vary the premises licence for Presbar Foundry (Diecast) at 51-53 Ducie Street, Manchester, M1 2JQ drew 25 representations from local residents and LOOH. Concerns focused on noise disturbance, amplified music, anti-social behaviour, and the effectiveness of management and security. Residents submitted evidence of personal experiences with noise nuisance and public safety issues. LOOH also noted a history of complaints regarding noise breakout and customer dispersal. The sheer volume of objections underscores the impact of licensed premises on surrounding communities and the importance of robust management to prevent public nuisance.

Temporary Event Notice for The Rat & Pigeon Objected to by Police and LOOH

A Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for The Rat & Pigeon at 33 Back Piccadilly, Manchester, M1 1HP also faced objections from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and LOOH. Concerns were raised about crime and disorder, public safety, and public nuisance, particularly regarding the proposed outdoor event in an area already affected by anti-social behaviour. The objections highlight the challenges of managing temporary events and ensuring they do not negatively impact the local environment and community.

For more details on these licensing decisions, please refer to the Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel meeting documents.

Schools Forum Addresses Financial Health and SEND Reform

The Schools Forum met on Monday 13 July 2026 to discuss the financial standing of Manchester's schools and the ongoing reforms for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The discussions highlighted the significant financial pressures facing the education sector and the strategic approach to improving support for children with SEND.

Excessive School Balances and Clawback Mechanism

The forum reviewed the financial health of Manchester's maintained schools, noting an overall surplus of £14.298 million for the 2025-26 financial year. However, the report detailed a proposed clawback mechanism for schools holding excessive balances, defined as exceeding 8% of their budget share for primary schools or 5% for secondary schools. The recommendation to set the automatic clawback rate at 100% for balances held for more than two years aims to reallocate these funds to offset the deficit in the High Needs Block (HNB). This measure directly impacts school budgets and aims to ensure resources are available for essential SEND provision.

Manchester's Local SEND Reform Plan

The forum was presented with Manchester's Local SEND Reform Plan (2026-2029), developed in response to national reforms. The plan aims to create an inclusive 0-25 SEND system, with a focus on early intervention and local support. Key priorities include strengthening mainstream inclusion, improving workforce capacity, and stabilising the High Needs system, which currently faces a deficit of £59.2 million. The plan acknowledges the significant financial pressures and outlines strategies to reduce demand for high-cost provision through early intervention and increased mainstream capacity. This reform is critical for ensuring that children with SEND receive the timely and appropriate support they need to thrive.

For more information on these discussions, please refer to the Schools Forum meeting documents.

Other Matters

The Constitutional and Nomination Committee met on Wednesday 15 July 2026 to discuss appointments to council committees and outside bodies.

This week in Manchester:

Housing Development Sparks Debate: High-Rise Plans and Community Concerns

The Planning Committee met on Thursday, 9 July 2026, to consider several significant planning applications, including a large residential development in Cheetham and a proposal to convert a nursing home into a primary school. These decisions have the potential to reshape neighbourhoods and impact local residents.

Towering Ambitions for Lord Street and Cheetham Hill Road

A proposal for a substantial residential development on the land at the corner of Lord Street and Cheetham Hill Road in Cheetham was a key item. The development, put forward by Linear Living Lord Street Limited, includes a building that would rise to 24 storeys. While the developers highlighted the creation of jobs and the contribution to housing supply, local residents voiced strong objections. Their concerns included the potential for construction dust, increased traffic congestion, wind effects, loss of light, and the sheer scale and appearance of the proposed building. The report acknowledged that the development would cause less than substantial harm to some heritage assets, but argued that the public benefits of the scheme outweighed these impacts. The recommendation was to approve the application, pending the finalisation of a Section 106 agreement, a legal pact between the developer and the council that often secures community benefits.

Westwood Nursing Home to Become a Primary School

The committee also considered a change of use application for Westwood Nursing Home at 69 Crumpsall Lane, Crumpsall. The proposal, from Mr S. Eckstein of Binas Yisachar, aims to transform the former care facility into a two-form entry primary school catering to children with special educational needs. Local residents raised objections primarily focused on the inevitable increase in traffic and parking pressures in an already busy area. Concerns about noise from the school's play area and the suitability of the use in a residential neighbourhood were also expressed. Highway Services indicated that the projected traffic increase was manageable, provided certain mitigation measures were put in place. The report recommended approval, subject to specific conditions.

Former Levenshulme Cricket Club Site to be Developed

Plans for the erection of 50 new homes on the former Levenshulme Cricket Club site on Elsa Road in Levenshulme were also discussed. Southway Housing Trust proposed that 21 of these homes would be for affordable rent and 29 for shared ownership. This development aims to provide much-needed housing, with a commitment to 100% affordable housing and exceeding biodiversity targets. However, local residents raised objections concerning traffic, accessibility, congestion, and the strain on existing infrastructure. Highway Services raised no objections regarding safety but requested off-site highway works and the implementation of a comprehensive Travel Plan. The recommendation was to grant planning permission, subject to a legal agreement.

These planning decisions demonstrate how the council balances development aspirations with the need to address resident concerns and protect the character of our neighbourhoods. For more details on these applications, please refer to the Planning Committee meeting documents.

Executive Committee Charts Course for Our Manchester Strategy and Local Plan

The Executive committee met on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, to review progress on the city's overarching strategy and consider the future shape of Manchester through its Local Plan.

Our Manchester Strategy Gains Momentum

An update on the Our Manchester Strategy 2025-35 highlighted progress across various initiatives. The strategy, which sets out the council's ambitions for the city, is being advanced through projects like increased funding for the voluntary sector, expanded library hours, and a packed programme of free park events. The development of the Manchester Digital Campus, the restoration of Heaton Hall, and Manchester's upcoming role as host city for the TV Festival from 2027 were also noted as significant achievements. These initiatives aim to foster economic growth, enhance cultural offerings, and contribute to the city's zero-carbon targets, directly impacting the quality of life and opportunities available to residents.

Draft Local Plan Sets Vision for Future Development

A crucial item on the agenda was the draft Manchester Local Plan, prepared for public consultation. This plan is the council's blueprint for future development, outlining policies on land use, housing, employment, and infrastructure. The plan's adoption is a significant step in shaping how Manchester grows and develops over the coming years, influencing everything from where new homes are built to the provision of green spaces and public transport. The report was accompanied by a suite of background documents, including assessments on flood risk, housing needs, and heritage impacts, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to urban planning.

The Executive also received updates on the revenue budget process, the Medium Term Financial Strategy, and the city's recognition as a UNICEF Child Friendly City. Discussions were also scheduled regarding the future operating model for sport and leisure services and investments in employment and skills programmes. For more information on these strategic discussions, please refer to the Executive meeting documents.

Licensing Panel Weighs Public Safety Against Business Needs

The Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel met on Monday, 6 July 2026, to consider applications for new premises licences and temporary event notices, decisions that directly affect the night-time economy and community safety.

Five Guys Application Faces Scrutiny

An application for a new premises licence for Five Guys at Manchester Fort Shopping Park, Cheetham Hill Road, was considered. The application sought permission for alcohol sales and late-night refreshment. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and the Licensing and Out of Hours Compliance Team (LOOH) raised concerns about the potential for crime and disorder, public safety, and the protection of children, particularly regarding proposed late-night operating hours and a potential drive-through service. While both objectors recommended granting the licence with conditions, their input highlights the council's role in ensuring licensed premises operate responsibly and do not negatively impact the surrounding community. The proposed conditions aim to mitigate risks, ensuring that the sale of alcohol and late-night operations are managed safely.

Temporary Event Notice for Nell's Sparks Objections

A Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for Nell's on Edge Street during Manchester's PRIDE celebrations also attracted objections. GMP and LOOH raised concerns about crime and disorder, public safety, and public nuisance. Their objections centred on potential noise breakout, the exacerbation of existing issues with street drinking in the Northern Quarter, and the risk of setting a precedent for other venues. The panel's decision on this TEN will impact the atmosphere and safety of a key city event, balancing the desire for vibrant celebrations with the need to maintain public order and resident amenity.

For more details on these licensing decisions, please refer to the Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel meeting documents.

Other Matters

The Licensing and Appeals Committee and the Licensing Committee meetings scheduled for Monday, 6 July 2026, were cancelled.

This week in Manchester:

Licensing Panel Grapples with Late-Night Applications and Community Concerns

Manchester's Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel convened on Monday 29 June 2026, facing a series of applications for premises licences that have sparked objections from both residents and responsible authorities. These decisions highlight the delicate balance the council must strike between fostering economic activity and protecting neighbourhoods from potential disruption.

Kuttanad Taste Ltd: Restaurant's Alcohol Licence Faces Scrutiny

The panel considered an application for a premises licence for Kuttanad Taste Ltd, a proposed south Indian restaurant at 1 Chorlton Place, Manchester, M21 9AQ. The applicant sought to sell alcohol for consumption on and off the premises. However, the Licensing and Out of Hours Compliance Team objected, arguing that the requested hours for alcohol sales were insufficient to uphold licensing objectives and could lead to public nuisance due to the restaurant's proximity to residential properties. The team recommended refusing the application, signalling a potential blow to the business's plans and raising concerns for nearby residents about potential noise and disturbance.

Onsite Records: Music Venue's Licence Hinges on Noise and Experience

An application for a premises licence for Onsite Records, a proposed record and music shop with a café and event space at 81 Newton Street, Manchester, M1 1EX, also came under review. While the applicant intended to sell alcohol, the Licensing and Out of Hours Compliance Team raised objections. Their primary concerns revolved around the potential for noise breakout from the event space into the residential apartments directly above, and a perceived lack of detail regarding the applicant's experience in operating licensed premises. The team recommended approving the application, but only with amended and additional conditions, indicating that the venue's future hinges on demonstrating robust measures to prevent noise pollution and ensure responsible operation.

San Guido: Off-Licence Application Met with Resident and Trading Standards Objections

The final application considered was for San Guido, a proposed retail off-licence convenience store at 202 Fernclough Road, Manchester, M9 5TU. This application faced objections from Trading Standards and two local residents. Trading Standards sought additional conditions to protect children from harm, specifically regarding the implementation of a Challenge 25 policy and the use of an alcohol sales refusal logbook. Local residents objected on grounds of preventing crime and disorder and public nuisance, fearing that granting the licence would exacerbate existing issues with anti-social behaviour and noise. They also pointed out that there are already sufficient alcohol retailers in the vicinity. These objections highlight community anxieties about the proliferation of off-licences and their potential impact on local safety and amenity.

The decisions made by the Licensing Sub-Committee Hearing Panel have direct implications for local businesses and the quality of life for residents in these neighbourhoods. For more details on these applications, please refer to the Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel meeting documents.

Economy Scrutiny Committee Reviews City's Economic Strategy and Living Wage Impact

The Economy Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 30 June 2026 to examine Manchester's economic trajectory, focusing on the progress of the Investing in Success strategy and the impact of the Real Living Wage. The discussions underscored the council's commitment to fostering inclusive growth that benefits all residents.

Investing in Success: Driving Inclusive Growth

The committee received an update on Manchester's Economic Strategy, Investing in Success. This strategy, designed to guide the city's economic development, prioritises five key areas: leveraging investment for inclusive growth, nurturing thriving sectors, developing infrastructure and talent, transitioning to a zero-carbon economy, and ensuring broader economic opportunity. The report detailed progress in areas such as major development projects like Victoria North and the North Manchester General Hospital redevelopment, as well as investment in district centres. This focus on inclusive growth is crucial for ensuring that economic prosperity translates into tangible benefits for all Manchester residents, particularly those in lower-income households.

Real Living Wage: A Step Towards Fairer Earnings

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to Manchester's progress as a Living Wage City. The report highlighted the work of the Manchester Action Group in promoting the Real Living Wage (RLW), which is set independently to reflect the actual cost of living. While workplace earnings in Manchester remain higher than resident earnings, there has been a positive increase in resident wages, bringing them closer to the national average. The report also touched upon the gender pay gap, noting that the unconditional measure used by the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) reflects overall pay differences. The growth in accredited RLW employers and the number of employees benefiting from the initiative demonstrate a tangible effort to improve living standards for workers across the city. The committee's focus on this issue directly impacts the financial well-being of many families in Manchester.

The committee also reviewed its work programme and key decisions, ensuring ongoing scrutiny of the council's economic policies. For more information on these discussions, please refer to the Economy Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Neighbourhoods, Environment and Climate Change Committee Addresses Waste Services and Green Investment

The Neighbourhoods, Environment and Climate Change Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 30 June 2026 to discuss the performance of waste, recycling, and street cleansing services, alongside the Clean and Green Investment Programme. The committee's deliberations focused on improving environmental quality and service delivery across the city.

Waste and Recycling: Performance and Future Priorities

The committee received an update on Manchester's waste, recycling, and street cleansing services for the 2025/26 period. The report highlighted that Manchester's recycling rate of 38.9% in 2024/25 was stable and compared favourably with other major urban authorities, ranking as the second highest performing Core City for household recycling. The report detailed the performance of the waste and street cleansing contract with Biffa, noting improvements in missed bin collections and assisted collections. Key priorities for 2026/27 include embedding an enhanced cleansing model, increasing recycling participation, and delivering the Fly-tipping and Litter Action Plan. These efforts are vital for maintaining clean neighbourhoods and promoting environmental responsibility among residents.

Clean and Green Investment: Boosting Environmental Quality

The committee reviewed the Clean and Green Investment Programme for 2026/27, which aims to deliver measurable improvements in environmental quality, service performance, and resident satisfaction. The programme includes significant additional investment of £5.592 million for 2026/27, directed towards areas such as waste fleet supporting the Zero Carbon Plan, grounds maintenance, and highway improvements. A substantial portion is allocated to Neighbourhood Teams, including an increased Your Neighbourhood Fund and the Neighbourhood Infrastructure Renewal Fund (NIRF). This investment is crucial for enhancing green spaces, improving service delivery, and supporting the city's climate change ambitions, directly benefiting the local environment and the well-being of residents.

The committee also reviewed an overview report containing key decisions and its work programme. For further details on these discussions, please refer to the Neighbourhoods, Environment and Climate Change Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee Examines SEND Support and Home Education

The Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 1 July 2026 to discuss critical issues affecting the city's young residents, including the provision for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and the growing trend of Elective Home Education (EHE).

SEND Reforms and Support for Children with Disabilities

The committee considered the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Annual Report, which outlines Manchester's progress in preparing for the implementation of the SEND Reform Plan. The report highlighted a significant increase in the number of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) in Manchester, exceeding national and regional growth rates. This surge in demand places considerable pressure on resources, potentially impacting the quality and availability of support for children with SEND and their families. The report detailed the city's commitment to co-production with families, emphasising the importance of their voices in shaping services. The Experts at Hand model, designed to provide specialist support within mainstream settings, was also a key feature of the discussion. Ensuring adequate resources and timely support for children with SEND is paramount to their educational attainment and overall well-being.

Elective Home Education: Safeguarding and Support Challenges

A report examined the challenges and implications of Elective Home Education (EHE) in Manchester, particularly in light of the new Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026. The report noted a sustained increase in EHE, with a concentration in the secondary phase, suggesting that transition and early secondary experiences are key drivers for families choosing this path. The EHE cohort shows an over-representation of children with SEND and high levels of socio-economic disadvantage. The report acknowledged the difficulties in parental engagement and the implications of the new legislation, which introduces a mandatory register for children educated outside of school and strengthens local authority safeguarding powers. Proactive measures to support vulnerable pupils and prepare for the new legislation are crucial to ensure the safety and educational progress of these children.

The committee also discussed the re-establishment of the Ofsted Subgroup to review inspection outcomes. For more information on these important discussions, please refer to the Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Communities and Equalities Committee Considers City Centre Safety and Equality Duty

The Communities and Equalities Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 1 July 2026 to discuss the proposed extension of the City Centre Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) and review the council's annual Public Sector Equality Duty report.

City Centre PSPO Extension: Balancing Safety and Freedom

The committee considered the extension of the City Centre Public Spaces Protection Order, which is due to expire on 13 July 2026. The proposed extension for a further three years aims to address issues such as waste management, alcohol consumption, and obstructions in public spaces. While a significant majority of respondents supported the continuation of most clauses, it was proposed to remove rules relating to nitrous oxide and syringes, with alternative approaches considered more effective. The proposed extension of the PSPO's area to encompass the Deansgate and Piccadilly wards signals the council's ongoing efforts to manage public spaces and address anti-social behaviour, though the impact on individual freedoms and the effectiveness of these measures will continue to be monitored.

Child-Led Approaches in Community Safety

The committee received a report on child-led approaches within Manchester's Community Safety Partnership. This initiative, informed by Manchester's participation in the UNICEF Child Friendly City programme, aims to ensure young people's voices influence safety strategies. Examples of child influence in addressing anti-social behaviour and serious violence were highlighted, demonstrating how involving children in decision-making can lead to more effective and responsive safety measures. This approach is vital for creating a city where young people feel safer and more empowered.

Public Sector Equality Duty: Progress and Objectives

The committee reviewed the council's annual Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) report for 2025-26. The report detailed progress against the council's three equality objectives: promoting inclusive employment, community involvement, and accessible services. Data on pay gaps, staff representation, and the impact of various initiatives were presented. This ongoing commitment to equality is essential for ensuring that all Manchester residents are treated fairly and have equal opportunities.

For more details on these discussions, please refer to the Communities and Equalities Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Health Scrutiny Committee Focuses on Carer Support and Adult Social Care

The Health Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 2 July 2026 to discuss vital support for unpaid carers and the state of the adult social care market. The committee also reviewed Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection reports, highlighting the council's commitment to ensuring high standards of care.

Strengthening Support for Unpaid Carers

The committee received an update on efforts to enhance support for unpaid carers, coordinated through the Carers Manchester model. This initiative brings together statutory services, health partners, and voluntary organisations to provide integrated and accessible support. The report highlighted continued improvements in identifying carers, increasing their access to support, and fostering a more coordinated system. The development of a new Carers Strategy, co-produced with over 300 unpaid carers, signals a commitment to ensuring their needs are met. This work is crucial for the well-being of those who provide essential care for loved ones, often at significant personal cost.

Adult Social Care Market: Quality and Challenges

A report on the adult social care market detailed the quality, safety, and oversight of external care providers. The majority of providers are meeting expected standards, supported by a robust quality assurance approach. However, the report noted that workforce pressures and the increasing complexity of care needs remain ongoing challenges. A small number of higher-risk providers require enhanced oversight, indicating that vigilance is necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of care services for vulnerable adults.

The committee also reviewed CQC inspection reports for various health and social care providers, ensuring accountability and driving improvements in care quality. For more information on these discussions, please refer to the Health Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Resources and Governance Committee Reviews Sport and Leisure Model and Housing Contracts

The Resources and Governance Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 2 July 2026 to discuss the future operating model for sport and leisure services, the transition of housing repair and maintenance contracts, and the council's contract management system.

Future of Sport and Leisure Services: In-House Model Preferred

The committee considered options for the delivery of sport and leisure services as the current contract with Manchester Active Ltd (MCRactive) approaches its expiry in March 2028. The preferred option is to bring the service back in-house, a move projected to save approximately £890,000 over five years. This transition would involve winding down MCRactive and transferring functions and staff back into the Council. This decision could lead to greater direct control over service quality and potentially more efficient resource allocation, benefiting residents who use these facilities.

Housing Repairs and Maintenance: Transition to Direct Labour Organisation

A report detailed the progress in preparing for the expiry of the current repairs and maintenance contract with Equans. The plan is to establish a future operating model from April 2027, bringing approximately 75% of repair and maintenance functions into the direct management of the Council's Housing Service through a Direct Labour Organisation (DLO). This insourcing aims to improve service delivery and potentially reduce costs for residents. The mobilisation cost is expected to be around £3.5 million, funded from the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) reserve.

Contract Management System: Enhancing Oversight and Efficiency

The committee received an update on the council's contract management system, 'Atamis'. The system now holds over 1,100 live contracts with a combined value of approximately £3.26 billion. Significant improvements have been made in data quality, performance monitoring, and compliance with the Procurement Act 2023. The focus on strengthening performance management and embedding social value and environmental considerations within contract management is crucial for ensuring that council contracts deliver maximum benefit to the city and its residents.

For more details on these discussions, please refer to the Resources and Governance Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

This week in Manchester:

Standards Committee Confronts Councillor Misconduct and Upholds Ethical Governance

Manchester City Council's Standards Committee met on Wednesday 24 June 2026, tackling serious allegations of misconduct and reinforcing the ethical framework that underpins local government. The committee reviewed a series of cases that underscore the importance of transparency, integrity, and adherence to the Code of Conduct for Members.

WhatsApp Group Chat Leads to Censure for Six Councillors

A significant portion of the meeting focused on a standards investigation that found six councillors had breached the Code of Conduct through their involvement in a WhatsApp group chat named 'Trigger me Timbers' (TMT). The investigation detailed allegations of offensive content, personal attacks, and hate speech within the group. The committee considered recommendations for censure and, in some cases, removal from committees for the councillors involved. This decision sends a clear message that such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated, impacting the reputation and trust placed in elected officials.

Predetermination in Planning Decisions and Bringing the Council into Disrepute

Another case highlighted a councillor found to have breached the Code of Conduct by prejudging a planning committee vote. This action undermines the principle of fair and impartial decision-making, which is crucial for maintaining public confidence in the planning process. The committee also reviewed a case where a former councillor was sentenced for sending poison pen letters, a stark reminder of the serious consequences of actions that bring the council into disrepute.

Planning Protocol and Gifts and Hospitality Policies Remain Effective

The committee also reviewed the operation and efficacy of the Council's Planning Protocol and its Gifts and Hospitality Policy for Members. The Planning Protocol, which guides members on interests and participation in planning matters, was found to be effective, with no complaints received regarding members' conduct in planning decisions since the last report. Similarly, the Gifts and Hospitality Policy, which requires members to register gifts and hospitality valued at £100 or more, was deemed to be operating effectively, with an increase in notifications attributed to a busy event schedule.

Member/Officer Relations Protocol Continues to Guide Interactions

The Member/Officer Relations Protocol, designed to ensure smooth interactions and uphold high standards of conduct, was also reviewed. The report indicated that the protocol is well understood and that no significant issues have arisen that were not addressed through existing procedures.

The committee also reviewed its work programme, ensuring ongoing scrutiny of ethical governance. For more details on these important discussions, please refer to the Standards Committee meeting documents.

Late-Night Refreshment Extension for Southern Fried Chicken Faces Objections

The Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel met on Monday 22 June 2026 to consider a contentious application for a premises licence variation for Southern Fried Chicken, located at 264 Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M14 6JR. The applicant sought to extend operating hours for late-night refreshment until 3:00 am, seven days a week, while also proposing to remove permissions for alcohol sales and recorded music.

Concerns Over Noise, Nuisance, and Public Safety

The application attracted significant objections from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and the Licensing and Out of Hours Compliance Team. GMP raised concerns that the proposed CCTV conditions were insufficient and that the applicant had not planned for SIA registered security staff, which they deemed necessary for operating until 3:00 am in a busy night-time economy area. They also noted the premises' location within the Fallowfield Special Policy Area, where applications for hot-food takeaways in the late-night economy are typically refused unless exceptional circumstances are proven.

The Licensing and Out of Hours Compliance Team echoed these concerns, highlighting the lack of acknowledgement of the Fallowfield Special Policy Area and inadequate conditions to manage potential noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour. The proximity to residential properties and the existing density of hot-food takeaways in the area were significant factors. For residents, an extension of hours could mean increased noise and disturbance, impacting their quality of life.

Legal Framework and Policy Considerations

The panel considered the application in line with the Licensing Act 2003 (Hearings) Regulations 2005 and Manchester's Statement of Licensing Policy 2024-2029. The policy's stance on the Fallowfield Special Policy Area underscores the council's commitment to managing the impact of late-night economy businesses on local communities. The applicant's proposed measures included CCTV, staff training, and a zero-tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour.

The full details of this application and the representations made can be found in the Public reports pack for the Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel meeting on 22nd June 2026.

Licensing Panel Considers Private Hire Driver Licence Applications

The Licensing and Appeals Sub Committee Hearing Panel met on Monday 22 June 2026 to consider several applications for new private hire driver licences. These decisions are vital for ensuring the safety and reliability of private hire services available to Manchester residents.

The panel reviewed applications from individuals identified as FK, UA, KC, and MA. The reports detailing these applications were prepared by the Director of Planning, Building Control and Licensing. Ensuring that all drivers meet the council's standards is crucial for public safety and confidence in the taxi and private hire trade.

The agenda also included procedural items such as considering urgent business and appeals related to access to background documents and confidential agenda items. For further details on these applications, please consult the Licensing and Appeals Sub Committee Hearing Panel meeting documents.

Other Matters

The Manchester Partnership Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday 23 June 2026 was cancelled.