The Council’s budget for 2026/27 continues to dominate much of my time as we get nearer to the Government confirming our final financial settlement for a year. Discussions with decision makers and officials continue until then, however my first weekly review of 2026 remains an explainer of Trafford’s financial situation.
In the meantime, other activity continues. This week started with a visit to Williams Row in Sale. This is a Trafford Developments project comprising five new family homes. This development supports the Council’s Housing Strategy– where we need to provide a mix of housing. Importantly, proceeds from the sale of each property will support the Council’s finances. Although they are being sold on the open market, we remain absolutely committed to providing more affordable housing, which is evident in other developments across the Borough.
We have many regeneration projects underway across the Borough and I’m often asked about the impact on existing infrastructure- including our road network. Earlier this week I joined the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, and Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett at a meeting with representatives from National Highways as we discussed how our road network will need to adapt to future developments in Salford and Trafford. It was a good meeting- the start of a new relationship with National Highways.
Other Greater Manchester activities this week included chairing a meeting of the Green City-Region Board, where colleagues from across GM come together to monitor progress with our Five-Year Environment Plan. I also attended a meeting of Greater Manchester’s Tackling Inequalities Board, where I presented a session on the crossover between our environmental aspirations and reducing inequalities.
Back at the Town Hall I’ve received updates on Children’s Services and had my weekly catch up with the Chief Executive. However, one definite highlight from the week was our Trafford Council Time to Shine employee awards held on Tuesday afternoon. We’re so fortunate to have such hard-working staff at the council, who often go above and beyond in the name of public service. Recognition of employees is important for any organisation and it was a privilege, as ever, to be part of the event and to have the chance to thank our staff.
I’ve been out on the doorsteps too this week, including in Davyhulme, Sale and my own ward. I’m now following up on several issues, including some loose paving and potholes.
Finally, on Friday it was a privilege to join colleagues at Manchester United for their annual Munich Day Remembrance Service. It’s now 68 years since the Munich air disaster and during the service we remembered the lives lost and heard about how they are honoured through the amazing work of Manchester United foundation. There’s a long and rich history between our Town Hall and United. One of the more poignant items we have at the town hall is a guest book in the Mayor’s Parlour, which documents visitors to the Town Hall in years gone by. In times of footballing triumph, the Busby Babes were guests at the Town Hall and signed the book. Following the Munich disaster, at a time of great sadness, the Town Hall hosted medical staff from Munich who responded to, and cared for, all those involved in the plane crash. It was important to have that opportunity to remember on 6th February.