Daniel Hodgson

Lounge Afrique in Middlesbrough has had its licence suspended after Cleveland Police raised serious safeguarding concerns following the alleged rape of a girl under 16. CCTV reportedly showed the girl being admitted and served alcohol, while police also cited apparent under-18 entry, reported assaults and drink-spiking incidents, and alleged staff non-cooperation with inquiries. Licence holder Percy Quarcoo proposed a new security team, electronic ID scanners and a replacement premises supervisor, but the council upheld the suspension. A full licensing review is scheduled for 17 August, while a 28-year-old man remains on police bail after being arrested on suspicion of rape.

Middlesbrough councillors say the Councillor Gateway, introduced in July 2024 to handle ward issues such as potholes, broken signs and fly-tipping, remains unreliable. They report cases dating back to 2024 and 2025, inaccurate information and being told work was complete when it was not. Council chief executive Erik Scollay acknowledged their frustration and said two progress checkers had been added in June, contributing to a substantial reduction in the backlog. A 2024 survey had found greater satisfaction with the system than with its predecessor.

Middlesbrough’s Orange Pip Market was cancelled less than a day before its scheduled Saturday event because strong wind gusts made it unsafe. Organisers said they could not find an alternative venue in time, while Middlesbrough Council apologised for the impact on traders, artists and local businesses. Residents were still encouraged to visit local businesses that had planned events around the market. The market’s next event is scheduled for 29 August as part of its 10th-anniversary season.