Over the next two years, most major airports in the UK are to introduce new “cutting-edge technology systems” into their security checkpoints.
Going through airport security could soon be a different experience as rules around liquid limits and electronic device removal are set to be relaxed, reports The Manc.
The new technology will not only end up being more convenient for travellers, as you’ll no longer need to spend time taking items out of your bags, but it’s also expected to make the passenger experience safer, as security staff will have more detailed images of what people are carrying.
Passengers are currently required to remove all electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, and mobile phones, from their cabin baggage, while liquids also have to be removed and are limited to 100ml and must be in a clear plastic bag.
Image: Leeds Bradford Airport
This requirement will eventually be lifted, and the 100ml liquid container limit will be extended to two litres, the government says.
It’s set to be “the biggest shake-up” of airport security rules in decades.
The current liquids rules – which were introduced in 2006 following a terrorist threat – have been designed to stop those with hostile intent carrying liquid explosives onto planes.
Going through airport security could soon be a different experience come 2024 / Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The government says the introduction of new technology is ushering in “a new era” of improved security and passenger experience when going through departures, and follows several trials conducted at some airports since 2018, which have “demonstrated the effectiveness” of this new screening equipment and technology.
These changes are all due to new regulations being put in place by the Department for Transport (DfT) today to remove parts of EU law that governs how new technology and processes can be implemented – which the government says will make it easier to streamline the processes that apply to UK airports in the future.
The government also believes these changes will further improve what are “the already high-security standards” in the UK.
Image: Manchester Airport
A deadline for all major UK airports to install the new technology has been set for 2024.
Until this deadline, passengers must follow the same rules as now until further notice, or unless told otherwise, and crucially, they should check with their specific airport before travelling to see which rules are in place.
They should also check the rules for carrying liquids at any airport through which they may transfer during their journey and at their return airport, as many destinations may not have implemented this new technology.
It's big news for Sheffield as the city has officially been long listed to become the UK City of Culture in 2029.
It’s one of just nine places across the country to make the cut, alongside the likes of Blackpool, Portsmouth and Wrexham.
Winning the title could bring huge investment to Sheffield, thousands of visitors, and a massive spotlight on everything that makes our city special - and let’s be honest, Sheffield’s got plenty to shout about.
From music and film to art and grassroots creativity, culture runs right through this city, and it would be a huge achievement to receive this title.
So, what happens now? Each arena will now receive £60,000 to develop a full application with the aim to build a vibrant cultural programme by 2028.
The nine confirmed long listed locations are: Blackpool, Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield, Swindon and Wrexham.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: "For far too long, opportunity has not been shared equally across the country. The UK City of Culture and new UK Town of Culture competitions recognise the enormous contributions made by communities all over the UK who are all part of the story of who we are as a nation.
"I look forward to seeing what the nine long listed places have in store as they progress in the competition. I also urge any towns thinking about entering the UK Town of Culture competition to seize this opportunity and get involved. It’s a chance to show the country what makes them unique and shine a spotlight on their cultural offer, enriching the lives of local people."
Go on Sheffield, we're rooting for you big time. We can't think of a city more worthy.
Popular Japanese restaurant Sticks’n’Sushi is coming to Leeds city centre
Clementine Hall
Sticks’n’Sushi is set to open in Leeds as the restaurant's northern expansion continues.
It’s a Danish brand but a Japanese restaurant, with 16 sites nationwide so far proving its popularity.
Sticks’n’Sushi serves (as if you hadn’t guessed) a menu of sushi dishes as well as grilled meats served on sticks.
They’re set to join the heritage-led Vicar Lane regeneration scheme with the opening of its 18th UK restaurant early next year.
Occupying an 8,839 sq ft grade-II listed space on Vicar Lane, the three-storey building will include a 220-cover dining room, 30-cover terrace and an upstairs bar.
Sticks’n’Sushi is founded by half-Japanese, half-Danish, brothers Jens and Kim Rahbek, and Thor Anderson in Copenhagen.
They have 12 restaurants in and around the Danish capital, as well as three in Berlin, and now Leeds is set to be the 18th UK site for Sticks’n’Sushi.
Image: Supplied
The menu will feature the brand’s signature sharing dishes of sushi, sashimi, salads and grilled sticks, available à la carte or in generous set menus.
Expect favourites like Ebi Bites (tempura shrimp with miso aioli, lime and chilli) and the Maki Maki selection of four signature rolls.
The sharing side of things includes a premium selection of build-your-own handrolls, maki and sticks, and classic Japanese grills like Shōyu Tebasaki (chicken wings marinated in garlic, ginger, tamari and soy), Gindara No Miso (miso-glazed black cod), and Aka Ebi (shrimp in gochujang and garlic butter).
The drinks menu showcases sake, Japanese teas, cocktails, premium spirits, and beer – including the brand’s own-label yuzu pale ale – alongside a concise wine selection.
Andreas Karlsson, SticksʹnʹSushi Group CEO comments: “We are delighted to be joining this development; Vicar Lane is one of the most vibrant retail and leisure hubs in Leeds and aligns perfectly with our dining experience from lunch through to late evening.
"We look forward to building a new team and becoming part of the Leeds community.”
Emily Sergeant -
15th December 2022 
