A crucial council meeting next week will determine the fate of a 199-home scheme near Littleborough. The plan includes a potential relief road but faces over 300 objections over traffic and infrastructure. Read the latest.
Plans to extend a Streetly property by 42% were unanimously refused after a last-minute recommendation change. Read the full story on the local planning dispute.
The former Falcon Inn in Willenhall has been granted permission to be converted into a 10-bedroom House of Multiple Occupation (HMO). Read the full story on the local planning decision.
Local churches across Rochdale, including St Luke's, St Mary's, and St Chad's, announce their January 2026 timetables featuring Holy Communion, Bible study, concerts, and community support. All are welcome.
MPs are set to question DWP officials over the WASPI women scandal after the Ombudsman raised 'serious concerns' about delays to promised remedial action. Read the latest.
Rossendale Ramblers faced frozen paths on recent walks from Sowerby Bridge and Holcombe. Discover their upcoming pub walk and scenic Arnside trek. Join the free walks today!
The DVSA has confirmed plans to upgrade its legacy online driving test booking system. The move follows a Treasury Committee probe into government IT and fraud costing billions.
HMRC admits a major error in its Child Benefit crackdown, wrongly suspending payments for over 20,000 parents. Critics brand the oversight 'appalling'.
Wealden District Council has published four significant planning applications affecting listed buildings and conservation areas in Fletching, Mayfield, Rotherfield, and Danehill. Residents have until January 30, 2026, to submit comments.
Disabled claimants face waits exceeding a year for PIP, pushing them into debt. The Public Accounts Committee demands urgent action. Read the full report.
HMRC's chief executive has warned MPs of a high and evolving threat of a malicious cyber attack on the UK's tax systems. Read the full security concerns and resilience plans.
Get ready for a fun-filled evening with The Lancashire Hotpots at Middleton Arena. Plus, discover top comedy, theatre, and cultural events across Rochdale, Bolton, and Middleton this January and February 2026.
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford issues a second apology to MPs after admitting AI was used in a controversial fan ban report. His future now rests with the Home Secretary.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will address Parliament on a critical report into West Midlands Police's decision to ban Israeli fans. The findings could determine Chief Constable Craig Guildford's future.
Solihull Council's planning committee has refused a proposal to convert a house in Dene Court Road, Olton, into a children's home. The decision, driven by highway safety concerns, followed a petition and 38 objections. Read the full story.
Solihull planners unanimously approve a two-storey rear extension in Poundley Close, Castle Bromwich, overriding neighbour concerns over size and character. Read the full debate.
Walsall Council's planning committee meets to decide the future of the former Falcon Inn in Willenhall. A petition with 375 signatures opposes the 10-bed HMO conversion. Read the latest.
Manchester's planning committee will make a final decision on two contentious projects: the 752-home Stockton's skyscraper and the Whalley Range mosque marquee. Watch the debate live.
Sandwell Council has postponed a ruling on eight new flats in Great Barr after the developer demolished the former GP surgery without permission. Read the latest on the planning controversy.
A House of Lords committee warns the UK is 'alarmingly unprepared' for an ageing society and calls for tax incentives to keep older workers employed. Read the urgent recommendations.
Rochdale celebrates its New Year Honours recipients, including Lioness Keira Walsh MBE, and looks ahead to long-term investment in the town's future. Discover the stories behind the awards.
A planning inspector has allowed an appeal against Worcester City Council's order to remove a 1.5m garden fence in Lower Wick, citing a four-year rule. Read the full ruling details.
Worcester City Council has refused plans for a detached two-bedroom house on Avon Road, citing overdevelopment and loss of character. Read the full details of the rejection.
Solihull Council spent £35,437 defending planning appeals last year, a sharp rise from previous years. Discover the cases and outcomes that cost taxpayers thousands.
A Rochdale charity secures £74,685 to expand its creative 'Blissful Bumps' programme, offering vital mental health support to expectant parents. Discover how this initiative is building a stronger community.
A damning report reveals disabled claimants face year-long waits for PIP decisions, pushing many into poverty. MPs demand urgent action from the DWP.
Rochdale Borough Council has validated a wide range of new planning applications, including housing developments, extensions, and commercial projects. See the full list of proposals.
Rochdale Borough Council has determined key planning applications, including the refusal of six new homes and approval for office-to-flat conversions. Get the full details on local development.
A damning report reveals severe delays in PIP claims, with some waiting over a year. MPs warn vulnerable people are being pushed into debt and poverty. Urgent action demanded.
A series of celebrity organ concerts featuring the magnificent, historic JJ Binns organ begins in Rochdale Town Hall in January 2026. Discover dates, performers, and how to book tickets for this unique cultural experience.