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Greenwich's Royal Observatory initiates a £77 million renovation, enhancing accessibility and educational spaces by constructing a lift tower and new astronomy galleries. The project, expected to finish by spring 2028, aims to inspire public interest in astronomy and improve visitor engagement.
Transport for London (TfL) faced criticism for only prosecuting four passengers for noise violations since 2020, resulting in just three fines totaling £705. The Liberal Democrats and Reform UK called for stronger enforcement measures, while TfL emphasized that most customers behave considerately.
Baroness D'Souza faces an eight-week suspension from the House of Lords after she wrote to the Metropolitan Police Commissioner regarding speeding fines. The inquiry found her correspondence, sent on official headed paper, attempted to influence a police investigation and could harm public trust in parliament. D'Souza expressed regret over her actions, which included a plea to reconsider the severity of her penalties.
The Lampard Inquiry raised significant concerns regarding the Oxevision monitoring system used in NHS mental health trusts, following the deaths of over 2,000 patients from 2000 to 2023. Critics described the technology as intrusive and dehumanizing, while its manufacturer acknowledged privacy issues. The inquiry aims to address systemic failures in mental health care.
A BBC investigation reveals over a third of councils in England and Wales did not inspect any licensed gambling establishments last year, raising concerns about unregulated adult gaming centers. The Social Market Foundation describes these venues as detrimental to poor communities, urging for improved oversight.
Transport for London (TfL) urges passengers to intervene against hate crimes by approaching victims and engaging them in conversation. This initiative, part of the Act Like a Friend campaign, aims to empower bystanders to support those targeted by harassment. TfL emphasizes safety in intervention and promotes awareness during National Hate Crime Awareness Week.
A Metropolitan police officer, PC Perry Lathwood, faces misconduct proceedings after allegedly using excessive force during a wrongful arrest for bus fare evasion in Croydon. Lathwood, who previously received a £1,500 fine for assaulting the victim, denied the allegations that his conduct was grossly inappropriate. If proven, the misconduct charges could lead to his dismissal from the police force.
A woman from Sidcup, Katie Mitchell, has become the longest-living heart-lung transplant recipient in the UK, surviving 38 years post-surgery. She received the transplant at age 15 due to Eisenmenger syndrome, a rare condition that caused severe health complications. Katie emphasizes the importance of organ donation, reflecting on her donor's family and the life-changing impact of the transplant.
Paul Martin, a 60-year-old from Croydon, faces charges of encouraging terrorism and possessing weapons for terrorism after allegedly inciting violence on the Telegram group The Resistance UK during the Covid pandemic. Prosecutors claim he posted over 16,000 messages, urging followers to acquire weapons and form militias against government restrictions. Martin denies most charges but admits to owning a stun gun.
London bus drivers report severe cockroach infestations on buses, prompting urgent calls for pest control measures. Transport for London acknowledges the issue as rare and has initiated an investigation. Drivers demand more frequent deep cleaning and improved sanitation to ensure safety for both staff and passengers.