The regional body steering transport, housing and growth for Greater Manchester
A mix of speeches and reports shows Africa and the UK embracing smart-city tech while real-world outcomes lag. Experts warn that benefits must reach ordinary households as investments in minerals, housing, and public spaces shape future growth.
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.
The GMCA has released details of Andy Burnham’s meetings with Manchester City’s owners during his time as mayor, while the Premier League has found City in breach of financial rules. Burnham says he will publish all meetings, and opposition calls for full transparency intensify as scrutiny over overage deals and the club’s governance grows.
Independent Football Regulator’s findings confirm Manchester City breached Premier League financial rules between 2009 and 2018. The regulator says the process to hear the case will run through the season, with a formal judgment expected by January as City face potential sanctions and appeals.
The Guardian reports a surge in Emirati-linked land titles in Greater Manchester, rising from 51 in 2016 to 168 in 2026, with the Etihad Stadium among properties owned by Sheikh Mansour’s companies. The Guardian also notes loans from the GMCA fund and ongoing investigations into transparency and value. Other outlets corroborate concerns about governance and the Manchester Life deals.