Congestion charging - make your voice heard.

Politics has got to be a two way street of ideas, opinions and values. That is why it is essential that as many Mancunians as possible are given the chance to be consulted on proposals to address the ever growing problem of congestion in Greater Manchester.

Please visit Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA) here www.gmfuturetransport.co.uk to have your say.

Gordon Brown - Time for Bold Labour Politics

It was a privilege to be at the Bridgewater Hall to see Gordon Brown confirmed as our leader and next Prime Minister yesterday. A historical and proud day for the city of Manchester and our country.

I came away from the leadership conference feeling reinvigorated and sure that Gordon Brown will renew our party, restore faith in politics and deliver a socially just Britain.

To see the speech click on the link below

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_BhhTZvjB8

Mike Amesbury elected as Assistant Executive Member for Arts and Leisure

Councillor Mike Amesbury has been successfully elected to serve alongside Councillor Mike Kane as the Assistant Executive Member for Arts and Leisure on Manchester City Council.

Cllr Amesbury stated "it is a great honour to help shape arts / leisure policies and services throughout this great city. Over the last three weeks Cllr Mike Kane and I have been meeting with heads of services to drive Manchester Labours political priorities forward

These are outlines below

1. 
   We will continue to invest in Library services to improve life long learning opportunities and access to the highest quality information services and educational opportunities. To ensure where possible the Council extends library-opening hours.
   



2. Increasing the number of parks achieving green flag status in the City over the next two years and increase the range of cultural, sporting and other activities accessible by all to improve health outcomes for Manchester people.
   



3. Seek to support the Manchester International Festival developing it into a world-class cultural event and attract other national and international sporting and cultural events to the City.
   



4. We will make sure that we continue to support the cultural economy - the music scene including Manchester's musical heritage, the Northern Quarter, new media & creative industries in the City
   

World-class arts, world-class leisure, world-class Manchester.

Better housing for Fallowfield

Vote, Vote, Vote

Councillor David Royle is encouraging tenants to vote in
the forthcoming ballot to determine whether to set up a
locally owned and controlled housing company.
Speaking at a recent tenants meeting Cllr Royle stated,

“this July tenants will have the important opportunity to
vote on the proposals to create a local not for profit
housing company called City South Manchester.
If tenants decide to vote yes a multi million pound
investment programme will help to improve our estate
and environment”.

For more information, call the Transfer Project Team on 834 1618 or email:
housing.investment.options@manchester.gov

N.B. Your Labour Councillors hold Advice Bureau EVERY Saturday morning 10am - 12pm
in Fallowfield Library, Platt Lane/Lloyd St South. (except August +Bank holidays).

A Better Shopping Parade

An Environmental improvement programme will begin on the Fallowfield Triangle shopping parade in September of this year.

The work will include new paving stones, ornamental street furniture including new lighting and new shop frontages.

Cllr Mike Amesbury said "Your local councillors together with traders & residents have campaigned for these improvements for a long time. Just under £1 million has been secured to invest in this shopping area, this will help to regenerate the immediate environment and attract new traders to Fallowfield".

If you would like further information please email cllr.m.amesbury@manchester.gov.uk

Pictured are Cllr Mike Amesbury and Cllr David Royle

APPLY FOR CASH TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE 2007/08

This year's Cash grants programme has been launched and once again you can apply for any amount up to £40,000 per ward.
Councillor Mike Amesbury said "This is your chance to make a real difference to your community and to tackle some of the problems in your area. Projects can range from landscaping waste ground, improving existing community facilities, installing a community work of art - anything in fact, that creates lasting benefits for local residents".
Almost anyone can apply, whether friends and neighbours, community and residents' groups. All you need is a project that will be based in Manchester and will benefit Manchester residents.

More information
For further information call David Hilton on 0161 234 3016 or email voluntary.sector.grants@manchester.gov.uk

Peter and the Labour Team toast election success.

Peter Morrison Labour candidate for Fallowfield Ward received a ringing endorsement from the electorate on Thursday 4th of May. Labour has extended its majority over its nearest rivals the Lib Dems to 737.

Cllr Peter Morrison in his acceptance speech stated" I am once again honoured to serve the residents of Fallowfield and Whalley Range as their Labour Councillor. Together with my colleagues Councillors Mike Amesbury and David Royle we will continue to make this community a safer, cleaner ad greener area for all".

The Liberal Democrat, Conservative and Green candidates failed to make an appearance at the count displaying contempt for the residents of the ward and the whole electoral process.

Full Result

Peter Morrison Labour 1215

John-Paul Wilkins Liberal Democrat 478

Rachel Sills Green 251

Ashton J E Cull Conservative 230

An election message from Peter Morrison

Local elections are about electing Councillors who will work hard for their
community all year round. I am a long standing resident who cares a great deal
about our area and our city. I have been proud to serve you as a Councillor for this ward for 25 years and I have a proven track record of getting things done.

For example you asked me & my Labour colleagues Cllr Amesbury & Royle to get tough on anti social behaviour and promote a greater sense of respect in our community.
Where necessary we have secured ASBO’s on the minority of that have tried to make residents life’s hell.

We campaigned for visible neighbourhood policing teams, I’m sure many of you have seen the additional Police Community Support Officers patrolling our streets.

And I am determined to make our area cleaner and greener clamping down on those that litter and graffiti our streets while campaigning for an extension of recycling to include plastic.

It will be a great honour to serve you again if you re-elect me on Thursday May 3rd.
My key priorities are to work towards providing the best services we can to attract additional investment in our schools, shopping areas and social housing.

Please vote for a safer, cleaner greener community on Thursday 3rd of May.

GORDON BROWN TELLS LEECH TO START PACKING HIS BAGS



Lacklustre Lib Dem and absentee Manchester city councillor John ' two jobs' Leech MP gets a right mauling in the South Manchester Reporter this week from Chancellor Gordon Brown. See the link below . www.southmanchesterreporter.co.uk/news/s/226/226992_im_coming_to_get_you.html
Leech responds with a Lib Dem "wimper of a whinge" about not being told about the visit.

Cllr Mike Amesbury stated: "Between now and the next general election Labour activists and supporters will ensure that Lucy Powell kicks Leech into touch. We have seen off the Lib Dems in Fallowfield and we will see them off in Manchester Withington.

Labour launches campaign – your NHS: better with Labour

New campaign and website shows how Labour’s investment is changing communities and encouraging healthier life choices.
Labour Ministers be campaigning around the country to launch the Labour Party’s new campaign that the NHS is better with Labour.
Throughout the week we will be demonstrating that the NHS is saving more lives, treating more patients and is quicker than ever before.
Ministers are highlighting the huge strides being made to reach Labour’s 18 week manifesto commitment on waiting times. Health Ministers will be visiting hospitals that are on course to meet the target by the end of this year – a full 12 months ahead of schedule.
Labour’s Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt MP, commenting on the launch of the campaign from Walsall Hospital, said:
“Health is a Labour issue. It always has been, and it always will be. This will be a front foot campaign, with Labour on the streets setting out our message.
“The NHS was made by Labour and since 1997 it has been saved by Labour. The NHS is crafted in Labour values – it is health treatment for all, free at the point of need.
“We have also produced a great website where people can see for themselves how Labour’s investment in the NHS has made a difference in their communities. Give it a try – visit http://www.betterwithlabour.co.uk/
“David Cameron gives a good impression but his actions speak louder than warm words on the NHS. He has voted against Labour’s extra investment in the NHS, voted against the dramatic falls in waiting times, voted against the extra nurses and doctors and simply cannot be trusted with our Health service.”

Show your support for St George’s Day & have fun at this year’s parade

Parade Sunday 22nd of April, St George's Day Monday 23rd


Labour candidate Peter Morrison is urging residents to go along to what promises to be a great St George’s day parade this year.

The Parade leaves Nicholas Varley School, Miles Platting at 12noon and will make its way into Piccadilly Gardens at approximately 12.30pm.
Included in this years parade are: Knights and Damsels from Nicholas Varley School, Veterans and cadets from the Armed Forces, several bands including Brass, Pipe, Jazz, Steel and Samba to name a few. We will also see The Sealed Knot (English civil war re-enactment group) Clan of the Dragon (Viking re-enactment group), Belly Dancers, English Shire Horses including National Champion Titan, Rose Queens from around Manchester and of course St George, Henry VIII and Queen Victoria will also be there.
With over 700 people participating in the Parade, and estimated crowds to be in the thousands, it promises to be an exciting and colourful event.
On the Friday and Saturday 20th / 21st April there will be an English Themed Market in Piccadilly Gardens.

Local election launch in Fallowfield Manchester

Optimism & Hope

"A strong economy is the basis for a prosperous and fair society", Peter Morrison Labour Party candidate has said at the launch of the local elections campaign in Manchester.
Peter Morrison stated that "10 years of investment in local communities by Labour had improved health, schools, created jobs, and cut crime".
Peter Morrison has told supporters that Labour must offer the public "optimism and hope".He praised the leadership of Manchester Labour for transforming our city with effective stewardship of the economy making Manchester arguably the real second city.
Labour colleague Cllr Mike Amesbury said that "tackling anti-social behaviour was a key issue for voters and Labour had worked hard to push through laws to tackle it".

We are detemined to make Fallowfield & Whalley Range a safer, cleaner and greener area for all.
Residents are looking for optimism and hope from Labour. We should give it to them. We are a party who has achieved so much and have even more to do."

Labour councils cost you less

Cllr Mike Amesbury , has said that the publishing of the 2007/08 council tax rates clearly show that Labour councils offer the best value for money.
"Labour councils cost local residents on average £262 per year less than Tory controlled councils and £201 less than Lib Dem councils.
"And thanks to Labour's consistent investment in local government, and prudent management of city council finaces, the rise will be the lowest rise in Greater Manchester for the eighth year running.

In neghbouring Lib Dem controlled Stockport the rise is close to double that of Manchester.

"The choice for people voting in May's local elections is clear - if you want value for money from your local authority, vote Labour

Fallowfield Library Springs into Action

Councillor Peter Morrison has welcomed an initiative to Spring Fallowfield Library into Action this April. Cllr Morrison stated" Following some recent negative publicity I am pleased to see that Manchester Libraries have put such a magnificent programme of free activities together for local residents of Fallowfield"

For further information about the Free events for Children, Families and Senior citizens at the Library this April phone 0161 224 4153 .


Monday 2nd of April

2 till 3 Craft session with Sharon Theme Easter (For under 5)
10 till 1 Craft session 8 to 16 year old
2 till 4:30 Craft session 8 to 16 year old (

Tuesday 3rd - Nursery and Playgroup visit the Library

Wednesday 4th 2 till 3 Jiggy Session – Under 5’s

Teenage event with Spear fish company doing (Series of work shops culminating in a short film, Young people are invited to take part in all aspects of production from story-boarding, scripting, model/prop making, filming, production and, of course, animating. The final animation is presented to the youth on DVD!

Home Work Club craft sessions 2pm till 4:45pm

Thursday 5th 2 till 3 Stories, sticking and Stuff – under 5s


Wednesday 11th 2 till 3 Jiggy Session

Teenage event with Spear fish company

Thursday 12th
2 till 3 Stories, sticking and Stuff For under 5’s

13th Friday - Coffee Morning 10 till 12

Hama bead craft sessions – 3.15 to 4.15.
Saturday 14th - Premier Reading Scheme with Leigh, Targeted with school’s

10-1. Craft session

Monday 16th Home Work Club 3.30 till 7;45
Craft Activities for under 5’s 2 till 3pm

Tuesday 17th - Toy Library and Story Bags Launch Party 1 till 3:30

Wednesday 18th - 2 till 3 Jiggy Session
(Possible Teenage event with Spear fish company)

Thursday 19th 2 till 3 Stories, sticking and Stuff

Friday 20th - Coffee Morning 10 till 12

Saturday 21st Dads Group (Sharon) 10 till 12
Homework club all day 10 till 12:45 and 2 till 4:45

Monday 23rd Home Work club 3; 30 till 7;45
Craft, Stay and Play session. 2 till 3

Tuesday 24th - Somali Day (All day) There will be Somali speakers in library to help and Somali customers can learn about stock etc We are still working on this, will have some food and Somali speaker! This will be an all day event

Wednesday 25th Jiggy 2pm

Teenage event with Spear fish company

Thursday 26th Stories, Sticking and Stuff 2 till 3

Friday27th Coffee Morning 10 till 12

Saturday 28th Premier Reading Scheme with Leigh (Poss pm)

Home Work Club: All Day

SHOW OF FORCE IN MANCHESTER

Budget summary - Building Britain’s long-term future: Prosperity and fairness for families

Gordon has delivered again, a Budget that sets out increases in spending on public services; increases education spending to its highest ever levels; reforms the tax system to reward work, supports families with children, and takes 600,000 pensioners out of income tax. A bold Labour budget for a soon to be bold Labour Prime Minister.
Key announcements

Further support for families, by increasing the child element of the Child Tax Credit by £150 a year, over and above the commitment to increase it in line with earnings to the end of this Parliament. This raises the child element to £2,080 a year lifting 200,000 children out of poverty;

Increasing the threshold for the Working Tax Credit by £1,200 to £6,420 to improve work incentives;
So almost £2 billion extra is being invested in tax credits in this Budget;

Child Benefit will rise in three stages to £20 per week increasing faster than inflation. Child Benefit which was £575 a year in 1997 will by 2010 be over £1,000;

Education spending will rise to £90 billion by 2010-11 the highest ever level, increasing UK education spending from 4.7 per cent of GDP in 1997 to 5.6 per cent by 2010-11;

An increase in pensioner tax allowances taking 600,000 pensioners out of paying income tax;

The basic rate of income tax cut from 22 pence to 20 pence from April 2008 with the 10 pence starting rate removed; Simplifying the tax system by aligning the upper earnings limit for national insurance with the higher rate threshold and over indexing both to avoid people losing out

The headline corporate tax rate will be cut from 30 per cent to 28 per cent from April 2008 together with other significant reforms to the corporate tax system;

Measures to encourage energy efficiency and tackle climate change including an increase in fuel duty rates from 1 October 2007; and increasing Vehicle Excise Duty on the most polluting cars, while cutting it for the less polluting;

Extending the Financial Assistance scheme from its present budget of £2 billion to a total of £8 billion so that every one of the 125,000 workers will now receive help. Reporting later this year we will investigate, in full, the assets within the affected schemes and how we can use them further to support affected pensions.

BACK GORDON BROWN FOR THE LABOUR LEADERSHIP - TO JOIN THE LABOUR PARTY PHONE 08705900200 or visit www.labour.org.uk

Tree clearance following January storms

Over the last few weeks residents have been in touch with me and my colleagues in regards to a number of trees uprooted due to the severe storms in January.

The high winds caused extensive damage and toppled more than 2,000 trees in approximately 800 locations across the city. Five aboricultural teams of three men have been working tirelessly since January to sort out the problem which has been immense in scale and which will take sometime to clear.
As well as clearing the fallen and dangerous trees as a result of storm damage the aboricultural emergency call out teams also provide a service 24/7, 365 days a year for the city responding to calls within two hours to remove dangerous trees.
Councillor Amesbury, said: "We are still faced with an enormous back log of tree clearing following the January storm and the teams who are working full time are doing a tremendous job, while still providing an emergency service".
The chippings from the trees are used for a variety of purposes on paths, mulching beds in parks and for landscaping work across the city.

To report an uprooted or dangerous tree email contact@manchester.gov.uk

100 DAY CHALLENGE

A CLEANER FALLOWFIELD

I, Cllr Peter Morrison, Cllr David Royle, the city council clean team and the new PCSO's got our hands dirty as part of a clean up of the Fallowfield Brow area. The Clean up was in response from a call to action by the newly formed Neighbourhood Watch group in Fallowfield Brow.

The new Police Community Support Officers did a house to house door knock and leaflet drop to promote crime prevention and litter enforcement measures.

Cllr Peter Morrison stated: "This is not a one off isolated measure but the start of a concerted effort to encourage a sense of community responsibility to many of these households that have a large number of student tenants. We will also encourage Landlords to take more care of their properties using both gentle persuasion and where necessary the law".

A number of residents thanked the volunteers and staff for their fruitful efforts.

If you have an idea as to how to make your local streets better or want more information about the 100 Day Challenge then visit www.challengemanchester.co.uk

BMX Track approved for Platt Fields Park

The submitted plans for the proposed BMX site on the disused shingle tennis courts and surrounded area ( that suffers from flooding ) have been approved by the Planning Committee. Do keep an eye on the Friends of Platt Fields website for more information. http://www.plattfields.org/bmx.htm

Thank you to everyone that has been involved in the consultation exercise.

The Friends of Platt Fields Park AGM - The BMX Track Debate

I, Cllr Peter Morrison,(pictured) Cllr David Royle, Sir Gerald Kaufman MP and over 40 Friends members attended a lively and informative AGM celebrating the success of the group and re-electing the committee for the forthcoming year. Following Cllr Morrison's move to extend the consultation period over the proposals to construct a BMX track, people are able to have their say upto March the 15th. Feedback from Saturday's debate will be fed into the consultation process.

To have your say please visit the Friends of Platt Fields site where both arguments for and against have been posted. http://www.plattfields.org/bmx.htm