Supporters from across the country contributed through CrowdJustice to enable Steve Speakman, chairman of Manchester Civic Society, to obtain legal advice on the controversial decision to allow a 40 storey tower planned for the city’s historic heart in the immediate vicinity of the Grade I listed Town Hall and Albert Memorial. This sensitive site is within 250m of 72 listed buildings and 9 Conservation Areas. The Society is now seeking a second round of crowdfunding to meet the additional costs of seeking a judicial review of how the decision was arrived at. Costs for this next stage are estimated at a further £10,000; if you would like to donate please click here.