Coun Gribbon: Celebs Rumors

Controversial plans to convert a former bank into 11 bedsits have ‘reluctantly’ been passed by councillors, despite concerns about overcrowding. Proposals for the old Barclays branch, in Edgeley, were approved by Stockport council’s planning committee after members were told the scheme complied with the authority’s housing standards.It means Manchester-based Lower Estates Ltd now has permission to turn the old Castle Street branch - vacant since 2014 - into an 11 bed ‘house in multiple occupation’, or 'HMO'. The scheme - including a kitchen, laundry and basement that could be converted into a games room - was referred to the planning committee after local councillors raised concerns over bedsits being ‘crammed’ into the building.But while members shared many of the same reservations, it was ultimately passed on the casting vote of chair Coun Steve Gribbon. Coun Gribbon told the meeting: “I don’t like this - I think it’s ‘sardines’, it really is - but I can’t see a viable, clear reason to do so [refuse].READ MORE: Go ahead for dozens of ‘affordable’ new flats to be built on old town centre car wash site

direct to your inboxAn area of Stockport is leading the way in driving down coronavirus infection rates.Marple Bridge and Mellor, in the east of the borough, is the only place in Greater Manchester that is potentially Covid free.According to Public Health England it recorded between two and zero cases - the data doesn’t specify at this low level - during the week to February 2.It’s the first time the area has seen such low numbers of Covid cases since September.Marple North councillor Steve Gribbon was delighted with the ‘absolutely brilliant figure’, describing it as ‘welcome news’.Coun Gribbon said it was testament to the local community who had taken advice on board and worked hard to bring rates down.He said: “I think one of the things