Manchester's Christmas Markets have ended for 2025. While some traders reported their worst year in 20 years, others saw strong sales. Read the full story on the festive season's economic impact.
Morethan Property Ltd submits fourth planning application for 205 High Street, Brownhills, seeking to demolish a bungalow and build six one-bed apartments. Read the full story.
Solihull councillors will visit the 300-year-old Brickmakers Arms in Balsall Common before deciding the fate of its controversial fence and outdoor bar. Read the latest in the planning saga.
A developer has submitted fresh plans for 14 homes on Malvern farmland, months after a scheme for nine properties was rejected by the council and dismissed on appeal. Read the latest details.
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.
Dudley Council's leader insists he has 'nothing to hide' as a report into a collapsed £1.65m land sale is delayed for nearly a year. Read the latest on the audit committee's concerns.
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.
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's planning committee has refused a 263-bed student accommodation tower, fearing harm to historic buildings like the Town Hall. Read the full debate.
Sixteen victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing have been awarded nearly £20 million in damages. The settlements follow a public inquiry that found serious security failings. Read the full story.
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.
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.
Taylor Wimpey Manchester has donated 321 winter essentials to Lifeshare charity for the homeless. The homebuilder's national Wrap Up Warm campaign has provided over 14,000 items. Learn more about this vital community support.
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.
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.
Councillors postpone a decision on 57 new social homes in Charnock Richard, opting for a site visit after residents warn of overdevelopment and inadequate infrastructure.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford faces MPs' scrutiny over a controversial fan ban citing a 'fictitious' match. His job is safe for now. Read the full investigation details.
West Midlands Police chiefs face a parliamentary grilling over the controversial ban on Israeli fans for the Aston Villa match. Follow the latest developments and calls for resignations.
West Midlands Police face a parliamentary inquiry over the controversial decision to ban Israeli fans from a Villa Park match, amid claims of antisemitism and false intelligence.
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.
Gary Neville's Relentless development firm will transform the historic Kendals department store into offices and retail, securing the future of this Manchester landmark with £44m funding.
Discover Winter Wood Grotto in Rochdale - an immersive storytelling experience combining theatre, music and dance for all ages. Book tickets now for magical winter wonder!