Latest news with #Sweeney
The National
6 hours ago
- Business
- The National
'Misinformation' row around demolition of historic Glasgow building
Paul Sweeney, who represents the Glasgow region at Holyrood, questioned assessments that said the entrance arch of the C-listed ABC cinema at 292–332 Sauchiehall Street could not remain standing. Historic Environment Scotland described the arch as a 'dominant full height Classical Modern entrance' built by renowned cinema architect CJ McNair in 1929. The agency said the 'dramatic' arch formed part of a 'striking and unusual streetscape elevation which is an important feature of one of Glasgow's principal streets'. The entrance arch of the former ABC cinema, installed in 1929 by CJ McNair and demolished in 2024 (Image: Richard Sutcliffe/Geograph) In August last year, Glasgow Council served the arch and surrounding facade with a demolition notice and it was subsequently torn down. The local authority then approved Vita Group's plans for the site in June, green-lighting student flats along with a ground-floor food hall, a pub, a takeaway and various landscaping works. However, the plans were 'called in' by Scottish Government ministers last week, who will now make the final decision on the development. Sweeney said that SNP ministers should send the proposals 'back to square one', but lamented that the arch and facade had already been destroyed. 'A shipping-container stack of student flats with a food hall at the bottom of it. I think we can settle for a better deal than that for Glasgow,' he said. Sweeney claimed that the McNair arch was 'essentially a concrete pillbox', adding: 'It was structurally sound, and one of Scotland's top structural engineers advised that it was perfectly salvageable in situ.' READ MORE: 'Glasgow deserves better': Heritage groups slam approval of O2 ABC site plans A Glasgow City Council spokesperson refuted the claim that the arch did not require demolition. 'After six years of being fully open to the elements, the deteriorating condition of the building was one which could no longer be tolerated in terms of public safety, and that is why a Dangerous Buildings Notice was served for the facade and the relevant structure behind,' they said. 'Public safety is the first and over-riding priority for our officers in such cases, who make decisions from fully informed positions.' A spokesperson for the Vita Group said any suggestion they had an influence on the decision to demolish the arch was 'entirely untrue'. The developers said they had provided 'no input, advice or recommendations regarding the [demolition] notice'. A report on the structural condition of the ABC cinema – seen by the Sunday National and prepared in 2019 by the engineering firm Narro Associates – assessed claims made in separate reports prepared for the 'planning application seeking demolition of the entire site'. The 2019 document refuted many assertions made in the earlier reports, notably about the impact which fires in 2014 and 2018 had had on the structural integrity of the building. It concluded: 'The main building framing and concrete floors behind the front section would … not deteriorate to the point of demolition being the only viable option available. We therefore do not consider full demolition of the building is necessary at this point.' Sweeney alleged that the assessments arguing that the arch could not remain in place therefore amounted to 'disinformation'. Niall Murphy, the director of the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, said he believed the front arch could have been incorporated into the new plans for the site. 'What had been said at the consultation was it [the front arch] was just made out of plasterboard and plywood, it was just a kind of 1930s movie stage set and it was never meant to last,' he said. READ MORE: Charles Rennie Mackintosh building 'at risk' from O2 ABC plan 'I was like, 'I'm pretty sure that it's got two lift shafts either side of the arch – they'll be very robustly built – and it'll have concrete floor slabs in it, because that's the type of technology you'd be using at the time. Also, it's got this huge cast-iron Saracen screen in it which would also be pretty robust. I don't really think it's going anywhere'. 'It was frustrating then seeing the demolition contractors' guys on site taking it down with jackhammers. If it was made from plasterboard and plywood, why would you be using a jackhammer? 'They were waving at me as I was taking a photograph, the guys on site were actually waving at me. If it's so unsafe, why are they up there being so cavalier? If it was genuinely unsafe, I just thought that was weird.' He added: 'The sad thing is, having taken it down, you can see straight in and you can see posters up … they've not been touched by the fire.' Pictures taken for the Sunday National on July 17 show the posters Murphy mentioned untouched by fire, behind where the entrance arch previously stood. Image showing posters on the wall of the former ABC cinema, directly behind where the entrance arch stood (Image: NQ) Both Sweeney and Murphy said that the development of the site should be more sensitive to the architectural history of the area, especially given it borders the Charles Rennie Mackintosh-designed School of Art, which Murphy called 'the most important building in Glasgow'. Sweeney suggested public ownership of the site as a possibility, arguing it could be developed into a commercially viable, multi-use cultural venue that also incorporates elements of both student and social housing. A spokesperson for Vita Group said: 'Vita Group is committed to delivering a transformational regeneration project on [[Sauchiehall Street]], bringing approximately £70 million of investment to Glasgow city centre. Our plans for the site include much-needed student accommodation, a public food hall, a courtyard and an events space. This would deliver benefits that extend well beyond the student community and help to revitalise the wider area. 'We fully understand the sensitivities of the site and the importance of heritage considerations. Throughout the planning process, we have worked diligently to ensure that our proposals are viable, appropriate and informed by meaningful engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders. 'To be clear, any suggestion or implication that Vita Group was involved in the issuance of the Dangerous Building Notice is entirely untrue. Vita Group does not currently own the site and was not involved in the decision to demolish parts of the ABC building, providing no input, advice or recommendations regarding the notice. Any suggestions to the contrary are wholly false and without foundation.'
The Journal
a day ago
- Health
- The Journal
Irish swimmers warned about venomous fish that can 'ruin' a beach day
IN THE WAKE of the hot spell, swimmers are being warned about a venomous fish which can be found buried in sand around the Irish coastline. The weever fish lurks in sandy areas of shallow waters with only its fin visible, and gives a painful sting to unsuspecting swimmers and walkers who cross its path. The sting can cause severe pain, swelling, redness and numbness which peaks in the first two hours, but may last more than 24 hours. A sting is usually non-life threatening, but severe cases may cause anaphylactic shock. Méabh Delaney was stung by a weever fish while holidaying in Kerry and described it as a 'really horrible' experience. 'I was walking on the beach with my friend who was a lifeguard and next thing I knew, I felt a weird sensation in my leg and my foot. Thankfully I was with my friend who knew straight away it was a weever fish because they can be common enough in Kerry waters', she said. Delaney said her friend brought her to the lifeguard on duty who was used to treating weever fish stings and immediately prepared boiling water to treat the sting. 'Because it was an isolated Kerry beach they only had a limited supply of boiling water, and that is how you get the sting out. You have to put your foot in water as hot as possible, you nearly have to burn your foot just to get the poison out,' she said. 'It was really, really sore, the lifeguard said he has seen grown men cry from the sting. The longer you leave it, the worse it gets and it travels up your leg', she added. Advertisement Roger Sweeney, deputy CEO of Water Safety Ireland said the fish are 'all around' the Irish coast and most common between May and September when the water temperature rises. 'They're very small, but they're venomous', he said, adding that a sting from a weever fish will 'ruin the day'. 'People have described it as intense for the first two hours. The foot can go red and swell up and can feel a bit numb. It can last on to the following day, with irritation for days', he said. To reduce the risk of a sting, swimmers are advised to avoid the beach during the two hours before or after low tide as weever fish prefer warm, shallow sandy waters where people paddle. Sweeney recommends swimming in lifeguarded waterways, wearing foot protection, or shuffling your feet when walking on the sand to disturb the fish and prevent a sting. Bathers who fall victim to the fish are advised to consult a lifeguard and immerse their foot in water 'as hot as can be tolerated' at up to 40 degrees Celsius for up to 90 minutes minimum, as heat breaks down the venom. If the pain persists, seek medical attention. Sweeney warned that the numbness caused by the sting may desensitise your foot, risking a potential burn from the hot water. To avoid this, place both feet in the water to ensure the temperature is not dangerous. He advised against using cold compresses on a sting, as the cold will worsen the pain. If stung, the National Poisons Information Centre recommends taking paracetamol to relieve pain and calling the NPIC on 01 8092166. Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
Herald Sun
4 days ago
- Business
- Herald Sun
Sydney Sweeney reportedly backed by Jeff Bezos for racy new career move
Don't miss out on the headlines from Celebrity Life. Followed categories will be added to My News. Jeff Bezos' latest investment is a new lingerie line designed by Sydney Sweeney. The Emmy-nominated actress, known for her roles in the HBO series 'Euphoria' and 'The White Lotus,' has been working on a lingerie line that has received backing from Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sánchez, a source familiar with the matter told US Weekly. Sweeney was invited to the couple's June wedding in Venice, Italy. Sydney Sweeney is reportedly primed to launch a lingerie line, which has been backed by billionaire Jeff Bezos. Sweeney recently shared cryptic photos of herself in lingerie. 'This has been a huge project for her and something she's been working on for the last year,' the source said. Her brand, which will reportedly debut 'soon,' was backed by Ben Schwerin, a partner at private equity firm Coatue. The private equity firm recently launched a fund focused on investing in high-growth public and private tech companies. The family offices of Bezos and PC company founder Michael Dell have committed to provide $US1 billion of the initial capital for the fund, according to The Wall Street Journal. Sweeney is one of the most talked about Hollywood stars right now. A pitch deck seen by the Journal indicated the fund aims to invest between 20 to 50 per cent of its assets in private investments with the rest earmarked for public stocks. Bezos has already invested capital in several companies in the tech, healthcare, aerospace, finance and media industries. Sweeney attended the lavish Venice nuptials of Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos. Picture: AP Photo/Luca Bruno Most of those investments are made through his venture capital firm, Bezos Expeditions, and through Nash Holdings, which owns The Washington Post. Now, some of his funds will back the actress's first brand. During her rapid rise to fame, Sweeney has formed partnerships and become the brand ambassador for several major companies, including HeyDude footwear, Bai beverages, Laneige skincare and Kérastase haircare. Recently, she made headlines with a campaign for men's natural body wash brand Dr. Squatch, selling a limited-edition soap reportedly made with her own bathwater. This story originally appeared on Fox Business and was reproduced with permission Originally published as Sydney Sweeney reportedly backed by Jeff Bezos for racy new career move
Express Tribune
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Sydney Sweeney tipped to be the next Bond girl
Sydney Sweeney is reportedly the leading contender to become the next Bond girl, with her name now sitting at the top of the casting sheet for the upcoming James Bond film. The Euphoria and White Lotus star has a strong professional relationship with acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve, who has been tapped to helm the next 007 installment. Their personal friendship and Villeneuve's admiration for her work are said to be major factors behind her rising chances. Insiders suggest that Villeneuve is eager to modernize the franchise with a fresh, dynamic face, and sees Sweeney as the ideal blend of talent, sex appeal, and athleticism. 'Denis believes she is hugely talented, as well as having an alluring appeal to younger generations, vital in modernising the franchise,' a source shared. Sweeney, 27, has also impressed with her recent physical transformation for her upcoming role as boxer Christy Martin, demonstrating her readiness for high-intensity roles. Adding more weight to the speculation is the backing of Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. Since Amazon holds creative control over the Bond franchise, Bezos's reported support could give Sweeney a significant advantage. Her attendance at Bezos's wedding in Venice last month only added fuel to the rumors of her potential involvement. Sweeney was also spotted last year at the Toronto Film Festival in conversation with Villeneuve and former Bond actress Ana de Armas, further strengthening industry whispers about her casting. While nothing has been confirmed officially, all indicators suggest that Sweeney is being seriously considered. The next James Bond film is currently in early development, with no official release date announced yet. Meanwhile, speculation continues over who will take over the role of Bond himself, with Aaron Taylor-Johnson and James Norton among the leading names in the mix.
Daily Record
6 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Record
Clyde Tunnel toll plan for non-Glasgow drivers is 'reasonable', insists Labour MSP
EXCLUSIVE: Paul Sweeney said it was no longer realistic to expect Glasgow's cash-strapped council to pay for the tunnel's upkeep on its own. Proposals to make drivers living outside of Glasgow pay to use the Clyde Tunnel are "reasonable", a Scottish Labour MSP has insisted. Paul Sweeney said it was no longer realistic to expect the City Council to continue paying for the maintenance of the underwater crossing on its own. The Glasgow region MSP warned the cash-strapped local authority was already spending around 10 per cent of its entire roads maintenance budget on keeping the 62-year-old tunnel open. It comes as councillors consider introducing a boundary congestion charge and potential tolling at the Clyde Tunnel, with exemptions for city residents. Sweeney said: 'It is not sustainable for Glasgow City Council to continue maintaining the Clyde Tunnel without a means of raising additional funds, with around 10 per cent of the city's entire annual road maintenance budget now being eaten up by the maintenance-intensive tunnel. "Over the past decade, Glasgow City Council has lost the equivalent of a full year's worth of funding as a result of disproportionate Scottish Government cuts to Glasgow, compounded by the constrained post-1996 council boundary, meaning that many of the region's most prosperous suburban households that were in the old Strathclyde Regional Council area no longer contribute to inner city Glasgow's tax base to support the operation of major regional infrastructure like Clyde Tunnel. "While I believe Transport Scotland should take over responsibility for what is a nationally significant trunk road, it is clear Glasgow City Council cannot continue to subsidise an annual funding shortfall of £820,000 on the Clyde Tunnel. Therefore, introducing a toll for vehicles that are not registered within the city council boundary passing through the tunnel seems like a reasonable proposal in line with European norms." Council chiefs are frustrated the local authority has to pay for the upkeep of the crossing as it is not classed as being part of the national road network. But councillors have been told a regulatory check must be carried out before a toll scheme for non-city residents can be introduced, something unlikely to be completed before the next Scottish Parliament election in May. A group of Scottish Labour MPs last week warned that introducing tolls would be a backwards step. In an open letter, they warned: "This proposal would have a devastating impact on the tens of thousands of residents outside of Glasgow who rely on this route for their daily commute into and through the city. "Implementing a toll would essentially amount to a tax on jobs, disproportionately affecting individuals who work in Glasgow but reside in surrounding areas." Susan Aitken, SNP leader of Glasgow City Council, said last week the local authority had "no specific proposal to introduce a toll on the Clyde Tunnel and lacks the legal powers to do so". But she accepted the council faced "significant issues about how we pay for critical national infrastructure – the cost of which in this case falls entirely and, frankly, unfairly on the citizens of Glasgow".
