Manner responds to Hotspur Press façade change backlash

After an angry reaction to the developer’s plans to switch from brick slip cladding to an aluminium system, additional design changes have been made to the Manchester student scheme, giving the 35-storey tower a “more appropriate” bronze finish.

Manner, which secured approval for the scheme on the former Hotspur Press on Cambridge Street last year, said the change to the façade comes after additional consultation with stakeholders.

Richard James, managing director of Manner, said: “Through the consultation process we wanted to listen and take on board feedback to ensure we bring forward a proposal for The Hotspur Press that local people and the city can enjoy for years to come.

“We have been very pleased with the response from local resident groups to our evolving design and their positive view on the wider benefits the regeneration of the building and the introduction of a new public square will bring.”

Manner requested permission earlier this year to switch out the façade, reduce the height of the building from 37 to 35 storeys, and increase the number if units by 24 to 619.

Other elements of the scheme include the creation of a 10,000 sq ft public square, retention of part of the historic mill façade, and preservation of the recognisable Percy Brothers signage.

The other elements of the scheme remain unchanged. Credit: via Social

A design and access statement outlining the design changes said the switch from the brick system to the aluminium one “upholds the original intent of achieving a high-quality façade while ensuring the project remains financially viable”. However, Manner denies the changes to the façade have been made to cut costs.

Stephen Hodder, project architect and founding director of Hodder + Partners, explained the rationale behind the move to bronze.

“The bronze finish will accentuate the depth and richness of the façade while still allowing a visual separation from the heritage asset on the site – ensuring the old and the new elements remain connected.

“The bronze façade is of exceptional quality, and we have remained committed to detail. Its tonal quality is more appropriate for the wider context of the neighbouring Mackintosh Village, whilst retaining the design ambition of clearly articulating new from old.

“This well-considered design will ensure that The Hotspur Press speaks to the way that the Manchester skyline is evolving. Like The Hotspur Press there are some fantastic examples of buildings where the differentiation between old and new structures is illustrated – here in Manchester and further afield.”

After initially receiving planning approval in May 2024, the regeneration of The Hotspur Press was significantly delayed by an anonymous application to have the building listed, which was dismissed in January.