City news in 250 words: Wednesday 27 October

MAJOR ROADWORKS GIVEN GO AHEAD: Four plans to ease congestion in Greater Manchester have been agreed on by the Government. The plans include the addition of an extra anti-clockwise lane on the M60 between junctions 15 and 12. The Manchester road improvements were some of the 16 that were approved by the transport secretary who said that they were a “key driver” of future growth.

MIF 2011 IS STILL ON: Whilst the Arts Council England have had to withdraw their funding for next year’s Manchester International Festival, organisers have maintained that the biannual event will definitely take place next year. 10 per cent of the festival’s funding was previously attained from the Arts Council England and this could mean that the plans for the 2013 festival are affected.

FOOTBALL SHIRTS STOLEN: Seven signed football shirts have been stolen in a burglary on Hulme Hall Road, Cheadle. Shirts signed by both United and City players, were taken as well as electronics and a car. Having bought the shirts at charity auctions, John Briggs, 53, was said to be mortified at the break in. Police are urging anyone who is offered the shirts to contact them immediately.

UNITED LEGEND’S WORLD CUP MEDAL UP FOR AUCTION: Former Manchester United and England player, Nobby Stiles, is set to auction off memorabilia from his football career. The 45 lots that include his 1966 World Cup medal are likely to sell for hundreds of thousands of pounds. Stiles’ intentions are to divide the profits equally between his three sons.

Out of the window weather forecast: Don’t be fooled by the blue skies, it’s still cold out there.