THING OF THE WEEK

COCKTAIL… They breathe planning at Euan Kellie Property Solutions. You may be familiar with the company’s annual Planning Grand National – if you don’t know, get to know – and the team’s love for the discipline was clear for all to see at last night’s 10-year anniversary celebration. Those in attendance were presented with a planning-themed cocktail list that included a Salford Sling, Manc-tini, and our favourite, Section 106 on the Beach. Rumours are that if you asked nicely, you could also get yourself a Roscoe Mule.

Credit: Rochdale Council

ROCHDALE CARPET… Rochdale Council has unveiled a new ‘carpet of paving’, described by Cllr Janet Emsley as a “beautiful piece of artwork”, outside its municipal building at Town Hall Square. Designed by local artist Vic Whitaker, otherwise known as Doodlher, the work is not something to be swept under the rug. Centred around five intricately etched paving stones, the project has well and truly cemented the key themes of industry, world connections, a great hall, a working town hall, and the future as part of a wider restoration of Rochdale Town Hall. Details include cotton plants, sheep, and the Lancashire Rose, literally paving the way for residents to learn the story of the borough’s past and future. 

And my first time on the slide! https://t.co/hFwniVBMBa pic.twitter.com/4xCrhKn4W3

— Paul Morris (@PaulMorris_Eng) September 20, 2023

CIVIC SLIDE… Civic Engineers took a field trip to Mayfield Park in Manchester this week and the team did not let the miserable weather stop them taking advantage of the facilities, no matter how precarious the conditions. Director Paul Morris almost broke the land speed record and several bones as he hurtled down a particularly slick slide. 

Stephen Hodder celebrated the 40th anniversary of his practice this week. Credit: PNW

KID DREAMS… Stephen Hodder’s architecture practice celebrated its 40th anniversary this week with a soiree at RHS Bridgewater – home to the Hodder-designed Welcome Building that may or may not have won a few awards (17, but who’s counting?). With such an illustrious career, including winning the first-ever Stirling Prize, what inspired Hodder to head to the drafting table in the first place? Turns out it was a car. As an 11-year-old, Hodder saw an architect driving a blue Jaguar. He loved the car and decided there and then to become an architect. Which brings us to the next big question – did he ever get the Jaguar of his dreams? Yes, Hodder told Place. But, he added that he hated it. Evidently, 11-year-old Hodder’s ideal car wasn’t so practical after all. Just goes to show you should never meet your heroes – or drive your dream cars.

Amazing heritage reuse project. Are you looking @UNESCOUK ? https://t.co/JJMbs4fpoI

— Pete Swift (@peteswiftysan) September 21, 2023

CONSERVATION CONSTERNATION... A conservation scheme that flies in the face of UNESCO’s decision to strip Liverpool of its World Heritage Zone title is nearing completion. As part of Everton FC’s stadium project at Bramley-Moore Dock, the club has committed to repurposing the former Hydraulic Tower and Engine House on the site as part of the proposed fan plaza. Work on the buildings, which date back to 1883, is wrapping up and Pete Swift, director at Planit-IE is keen to get UNESCO’s thoughts…  

Credit: Manchester United fans will be able to enjoy Champions League matches from a new marquee. Credit: via planning documents

NOISY NEIGHBOURS… Manchester City and Manchester United are experiencing contrasting fortunes at present. While United have struggled to get going in the Premier League, City find themselves top of the pile. But it is not just on the pitch where the two clubs diverge. Plans to improve the fan experience at the Etihad and Old Trafford also differ wildly. City won approval earlier this year for a £300m project that will increase the ground’s capacity and deliver an all-singing, all-dancing fan zone. Meanwhile, Glazer-controlled United are planning to erect a tent in a car park to provide additional hospitality for Champions League matches.