A 'sink estate', daily horrors and the truth behind Adolescence
Welcome to this week's 'Unmissable', our digest of the stories we think you might have missed
Hello,
Andy Roche is the last man standing. The blocks of flats around him are set to be bulldozed, and they are the final ones left on the doomed Lower Falinge estate.
Out of the 24 homes in the Zedburgh block, Andy’s is the only one left occupied - and he’s not budging.
Welcome to this week's 'Unmissable', our digest of the stories we think you might have missed.
This week we’re focusing on George Lythgoe’s excellent report on the planned demolition of blocks of flats on what David Cameron once described as a ‘sink estate’. Andy Roche has lived in his building since 1988 and has no intention of going anywhere.
As he told George: “We’re not against regeneration, per say, but it’s about what their plan actually is and we just don’t know. 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.” Andy is one of the last remaining campaigners fighting to save the blocks.
“It’s upsetting to see them empty,” the Zedburgh block resident said. “Because I really like living here.” It’s a fascinating tale worth your time.
Also over the weekend we published Jo Timan’s forensic analysis of Andy Burnham’s plans to create new halls of residence for apprentices, a startling update on last week’s investigation into counterfeit street and a brilliant interview with the manager of a Co-op about the almost daily intimidation shopkeepers face.
If you’ve been watching the smash-hit Netflix show Adolescence then you should check out James Holt’s interview with a psychotherapist on the subject of online dangers for children.
Finally, if you’re looking for something to make you feel really hungry Jenna Campbell’s excellent list of the 20 best bakeries should get you queuing up for Hong Kong pineapple tarts in Wythenshawe and Jamaican pasties in Trafford.
Use your loaf and take a look. Have a great week.
'I'm the last one in my block of flats and they're bulldozing the others around me'
The blocks have been in line for demolition since 2012, but the fight to stop the bulldozer is still going. Read all about it here.
Inside Andy Burnham's plans for university-style 'halls of apprentice'
The Manchester Evening News speaks to the people behind the plan to offer apprentices the 'university experience'. Learn more here.
The Counterfeit Street problem that just won't go away
Sellers flogging dodgy fake clothes in encrypted chat rooms online may be shut down - but it's only a matter of time before they reappear. Read all about it.
'I've had a gun put to my head'
A convenience store boss gives an insight into the perils of shop work here.
'Adolescence has started a conversation - but we shouldn't 'ban' children from using social media'
Netflix drama Adolescence has prompted an important national conversation about online safety. Specialist hypnotherapist and psychotherapist Dipti Tait speaks to James Holt about how parents can best approach the topic with youngsters.
The 20 best bakeries in Greater Manchester to try in 2025
Manchester's independent bakery scene is booming but it's facing challenging times - here's some of the best to visit across the region.