How Middleton’s revival could be grist to the mill for Britain’s struggling towns

The Guardian reports: Turnaround initiated by Andy Burnham and led by Steve Coogan could provide blueprint for other neglected areas Save high street by taxing online sales at higher rate, Burnham urged The former England footballer Paul Scholes and the actor Steve Coogan stare out from beside a fish and chip shop in Middleton, near Manchester.

The deafening looms and spindles of Warwick Mill fell silent decades ago, replaced in recent years by TikTok “urban explorers” who…

This business story centres on the United Kingdom. Names and organisations mentioned in the coverage include Middleton, Britain and Steve Coogan.

Why it matters

Moves like this are watched by investors, employers and consumers because of their potential effect on markets and the wider economy.

Key details

Location

United Kingdom · Europe

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

22 Oct 2026, 16:52 IST

Key names

Middleton, Britain, Steve Coogan, Andy Burnham

Section

Business

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianHow Middleton’s revival could be grist to the mill for Britain’s struggling towns 22 Oct, 16:52

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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