As the last resident of the Zedburgh block prepares for demolition, concerns over community fragmentation, safety, and new developments unfold in Greater Manchester.
A significant narrative unfolds at the Lower Falinge estate in Rochdale, where the last remaining resident of the Zedburgh block, Andy Roche, stands resolute amid an impending demolition. Once a vibrant community, the estate has faced a gradual decline, culminating in plans for the removal of the final blocks. Roche, who has resided in his flat since 1988, expressed his deep attachment to the area, stating, “We’re not against regeneration, per se, but it’s about what their plan actually is and we just don’t know,” while speaking to the Manchester Evening News. He lamented the fragmentation of the community, noting, “It’s quiet now, but it did have a community that has all gone away now. We have been split as well, the new homes are between us and the other half of the estate – so they’ve ripped us in half.”
The impending demolition has been a point of contention since the plans were put into motion in 2012, with Roche being a vocal advocate for the preservation of the remaining blocks. He reflected on the desolation of the estate, saying, “It’s upsetting to see them empty, because I really like living here.” His sentiments capture the essence of a community that is slowly dissipating, further emphasising the emotional weight tied to the bricks and mortar of the estate.
In parallel, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is proposing a novel initiative aimed at providing apprentices with a university-like experience. This plan unfolds new avenues for youth training and development, indicating a shift towards more comprehensive support for apprentices within the region. Details surrounding these developments have not yet been fully disclosed, but further insights are expected to emerge as discussions progress.
In another area of concern, the ongoing issue of counterfeit goods persists in Cheetham Hill, despite previous police interventions. Manchester Evening News reports that while there have been efforts to shut down online sellers of counterfeit products, new sellers are expected to reappear swiftly, indicating a persistent challenge for law enforcement.
The retail environment in the region also remains precarious, highlighted by an alarming interview with Darryl Stuart-Cole, a Co-op store manager. He revealed the daily threats faced by shopkeepers, including an incident where he had a gun pointed at him. Such encounters underscore the growing intimidation that store employees experience as they navigate their day-to-day operations.
Meanwhile, conversations spurred by the popular Netflix series “Adolescence” have shifted towards the complexities of online safety for children. Specialist hypnotherapist and psychotherapist Dipti Tait discussed the delicate balance parents face regarding children’s usage of social media. Tait advised against banning children from these platforms, urging that instead, parents should engage in open dialogues about the associated risks.
Lastly, for those interested in the culinary scene in Greater Manchester, the Manchester Evening News has highlighted the top 20 bakeries to explore across the region. With a thriving independent bakery culture, food enthusiasts are encouraged to discover delectable offerings, from Hong Kong pineapple tarts in Wythenshawe to Jamaican pasties in Trafford.
As these stories unfold, they offer a glimpse into the evolving landscapes of community, safety, and culture in Greater Manchester.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/rbh-forges-ahead-with-lower-falinge-demolitions/ – This article supports the claim about RBH planning to demolish housing blocks in the Lower Falinge estate, highlighting the regeneration efforts in Rochdale. It details the demolition of six empty housing blocks as part of this major project.
- https://www.rochdaletimes.co.uk/demolition-bid-for-rochdale-regeneration/ – This source corroborates the demolition plans for the Lower Falinge estate, emphasizing the regeneration plans submitted to Rochdale Council for the area.
- https://consultations.rochdale.gov.uk/strategic-planning/draft-lower-falinge-spd-consultation/supporting_documents/Draft%20Lower%20Falinge%20SPD%20%20%20Feb%202021.pdf – This document from Rochdale Council provides detailed information about the Lower Falinge Supplementary Planning Document, outlining the regeneration goals for the area, including housing improvements and community enhancements.
- https://www.rbh.org.uk/your-home/lower-falinge/ – RBH’s update on Lower Falinge includes plans for demolishing the residential blocks and commercial buildings, aligning with community feedback for safer living conditions and more housing projects.
- https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news – Although specific articles aren’t linked, Manchester Evening News is a source for various stories in Greater Manchester, including interviews like the one with Andy Roche about Lower Falinge and other local news.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative includes recent events such as the proposed demolition of the Lower Falinge estate and ongoing issues like counterfeit goods in Cheetham Hill. However, it lacks specific dates for some claims, which could be from recent or older stories.
Quotes check
Score:
6
Notes:
Direct quotes from individuals such as Andy Roche are present but without specific sources or dates when these quotes were first mentioned. There’s no immediate indication they are recycled from previous articles, but verification through further research might reveal earlier instances.
Source reliability
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative originates from the Manchester Evening News, a reputable and well-established media outlet known for its local coverage.
Plausability check
Score:
8
Notes:
Claims regarding the decline of the Lower Falinge estate and issues with counterfeit goods are plausible given ongoing urban development and law enforcement challenges in the region. However, some details like the novelty of apprenticeship initiatives lack concrete evidence.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative generally appears to be current and reliable due to its origins from a trustworthy source. While some specific details and quotes could be more thoroughly verified, the plausibility of the claims and the reputable source suggest overall credibility.
