Manchester’s industrial cradle, modernised
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority has released details of former mayor Andy Burnham’s contacts with Manchester City Football Club during his tenure. The disclosures show formal meetings at an investment summit and informal contacts at matches, with critics calling for full transparency as City faces a Premier League findings of breach and ongoing appeals.
The No 10 North operation in Manchester is expanding to bring devolution and local growth decisions closer to postcodes across the country. Burnham chairs the NEC from Manchester, with regional mayors and business leaders involved as scrutiny grows over costs and reach.
Manchester City’s owners, the Abu Dhabi United Group, face a Premier League disciplinary process after breaching financial rules. Prime Minister Burnham has commented, prompting scrutiny of UK-government and local ties to the owners. The case raises questions about future investments and accountability.