Govt opts not to list Manchester’s Hotspur Press

It has been decided that the former mill and printing press on Gloucester Street is not worthy of protected status, paving the way for its redevelopment into a 37-storey student tower.

The Department for Culture Media and Sport informed developer Manner today [Friday] that it would not be listing Hotspur Press on the recommendation of Historic England, clearing the path for work to start on site.

The 600-bed scheme, already approved by Manchester City Council, was cast into doubt last year when an anonymous individual applied to have it listed.

In response, Manner launched a counter campaign, which has now prevailed.

Richard James, managing director at Manner, said: “This is a huge win for the local community and the city, who in partnership with Manner, have made their collective voices heard.

“I want to thank the 822 residents, councillors, business leaders and Manchester City Council who supported our campaign to save The Hotspur Press and allow its regeneration to go ahead.”

The building is decaying. Credit: PNW

Historic England had refused to list Hotspur Press once before. In 2019, the organisation concluded in 2019 that the building, vacant since 2017, did not meet the threshold for architectural or historic interest required for it to receive protected status.

James, while pleased that the same conclusion was reached six years on, was rueful about the delay the inquiry had caused.

He added: “We thank DCMS for their decision not to list The Hotspur Press. However, it does not feel right that one anonymous application can lead to eight months of delay and uncertainty.

“We now look forward and reaffirm our commitment made to the community, the city and the regeneration of this iconic building.”

Manner’s plans, designed by Hodder + Partners, will see the majority of the dilapidated structure pulled down to make way for the student tower.

The Percy Brothers signage will be retained and a 10,000 sq ft public square created.