Manner aims for 2026 start for 35-storey Hotspur Press tower
The developer has submitted revised proposals for a PBSA tower on the site of a former Manchester mill destroyed in a fire last June, with a view to starting on site before the end of the year.
Developer Manner reaffirmed its commitment to the Cambridge Street scheme last November, unveiling refreshed designs for the Hotspur Press scheme that will see parts of the building that were due to be retained recreated.
Like the earlier approved development, the updated plans feature a 35-storey tower with 619 student flats and a 10,000 sq ft public square.
The tower’s bronze facade, which was not universally popular among commentators, many of whom preferred the earlier brick design, remains.
Some elements of the former mill, including the recognisable Percy Brothers and The Hotspur Press signage, had been due to for retention. However, they were destroyed in the fire.
The updated plans feature the recreation of the elevations facing the River Medlock, the railway arches, and Cambridge Street. The signs will also be recreated.
Hodder+Partners is leading on design.
It took 20 fire engines to tackle the blaze. Credit: Ernst ter Horst
Richard James, managing director of Manner, said: “We are delighted to take this major step forward and submit our revised plans that will see the legacy of this iconic site continue.
“While the fire was a major set-back for our ambitions for the site, we have worked closely with our design team to bring forward updated redevelopment plans for The Hotspur Press site.”
James added: “At the heart of our proposals is our commitment to deliver a scheme that respects and celebrates the history and heritage of The Hotspur Press. We have continued to consult with the local community who live and work alongside the site and they remain supportive of our plans and of our vision.”
A decision is anticipated in the spring of 2026. If the plans are approved, redevelopment work is expected to start by the end of 2026.
Fair enough.
By MainRoadMary
Is the cladding for the tower a good contrast with the bricks storeys below…maybe
By Jim
I would suggest that any graded building in Manchester if empty and presently not in use has to have a fire sprinkling system installed! It still astounds me that it is not written in law! to protect precious historical buildings!
By Northwich
So after a “suitable” period of mourning and hand ringing, the bronze faced edifice will rise from the ashes like a Phoenix. It will give a nod to the irreplaceable features, but will be a modern building.
What a shame… more of the Manchester heritage consigned to the memory and photographic record.
By Steve5839