Developer speaks out after ‘heartbreaking’ Hotspur Press fire
Manner, the firm behind plans to redevelop the Manchester site into a 35-storey student tower, said it is “devastated” following a blaze that destroyed the former mill and printing press earlier this week.
A statement released by the developer on Wednesday afternoon, some 48 hours after the fire, said: “Like all of Manchester, it was truly heartbreaking for us to watch the horrific fire spread through The Hotspur Press on Monday.
“Over the last two years we have worked conscientiously to develop a plan for the regeneration of The Hotspur Press that would celebrate its rich history and heritage. We are absolutely devastated to see the extent of the damage that has been caused, and it is incredibly hard to come to terms with what is now left of this important building.
“Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected, and we thank the fire crews who have worked tirelessly at the scene to bring the fire under control.
In the aftermath of the Hotspur press fire, the developer has been criticised in some quarters for a perceived failure to secure the site it was looking to redevelop.
The company said it is “assisting the emergency services with the investigation to understand the cause of the fire”.
“[We] will continue to liaise closely with Manchester City Council and local residents in this part of the city,” Manner added.
Twenty fire engines were needed to put out the fire, the cause of which has not yet been established.
They should be required to reconstruct the frontage as part of any future redevelopment of the site. The developer should not benefit from their negligence and failure to secure the site. This is happening far too often, no wonder there is suspicion regarding this fire and others such as the several in Preston.
By Dom
‘Heartbreaking’…yes that’s one word. Now rebuild exactly as it was or clear the site to make a green area for the nearby residents. What’s that?…no chance..there’s no profit in that and no one will ever be held accountable? Now that’s heartbreaking.
By John
So no accountability for their poor management of the site? Such an obvious lack of security and preventative measures to make sure this did not happen.
By Mr Mcr
Not convinced
By Anonymous
It makes no sense whatsoever for the developer to be involved in foul play in this instance if you take account of the strenuous efforts they have gone to to integrate the old building, and wait for the listing application issue to pass etc. This fire is going to cost them serous money. I would blame the system for preventing them getting on to develop and preserving the building much sooner.
By Lee
Why didn’t Manner secure the site, inspect it regularly, and ensure all the combustible material inside was removed?
By GetItBuilt!
But who was responsible for securing the property? The owner or the option holder?
By Anonymous
They should be getting a bill from the Fire Service!
By Steve
Lee, I agree with what you are saying but they should have made a better job of securing the site.
By Anonymous
All seems a bit convenient. The developers have to put it back as it was (as they were planning to retain the facades) and they have all the materials still. No doubt they will have excuses and delays. Authorities need to be strong.
By Anonymous
Now that it has disappeared for ever could we have a mural of The frontage of this building. Artists get your imagination going
By Popeye