THING OF THE WEEK
PARTY PEOPLE… Speaking at the launch of GM2030, a report looking at the future prospects of the city region, Andy Burnham voiced his excitement about Co-op Live, the new 23,500-capacity venues currently under construction in Eastlands. “It will cement our status as the UK’s capital of music,” he said, before failing to resist taking a jibe at his friends in government. “Once again, we will be the home of 24-hour party people. We will have snatched that crown back from 10 Downing Street”.
Credit: Place North West
SKETCHY… As well as Burnham, the event was host to high profile individuals including Bruntwood chief executive Chris Oglesby and leader of Manchester City Council Bev Craig. Important people have important things to say and to avoid attendees having to frantically make note of the nuggets of the insight being bestowed, event organisers MC2 had a novel solution. As Messrs Burnham, Oglesby and Craig et al spoke, their words were brought to life in the form of a live sketch, complete with cute unicorn.
LOOKING UP… Everton Football Club has released a video showcasing the installation of the first of four cranes that will help build its Bramley-Moore Dock stadium. Things are looking pretty sweet for The Toffees, with main contractor Laing O’Rourke still anticipating a 2024 completion date on the £500m scheme.
Credit: via TfGM
SARDINES… Around 400,000 gig-goers are expected in Manchester over the weekend as Ed Sheeran, Alicia Keys and The Killers take to various stages across the city. Parklife, the annual festival held in Heaton Park, is also on this weekend. The line-up of shows on offer demonstrates Manchester’s ability to attract the biggest stars but also threatens to highlight the weaknesses of its public transport infrastructure. Brace for transport chaos.
Credit: Place North West
REV-URRECTION… Eight years after closing its Preston venue, bar group Revolution is returning to the city after a £1.5m investment in a unit off Fishergate. The bar chain was forced to close several venues across the country due to the impact of the pandemic but is now on a growth trajectory once more. Cheers to that!
