UNANIMOUS PLANNING APPROVAL GRANTED FOR THE HOTSPUR PRESS
We are delighted our revised plans for the regeneration of The Hotspur Press site have been given the go ahead by Manchester City Council, after the planning committee granted unanimous approval of our planning application.
After ongoing consultation and engagement with the local community, following a devastating fire in June 2025, we put forward updated plans in December 2025.
Designed by award-winning architect Hodder + Partners, the scheme celebrates the heritage of The Hotspur Press through a recreation of the external facades of the former mill complex, accommodating new student accommodation alongside a wider regeneration plan for the site including the creation of a new public square.
Approved unanimously by Manchester City Council’s planning committee on Thursday 12 March, the plans will see the construction of a brick building up to the fourth floor which replicates in detail the appearance and architecture of the mill, with a high-quality 35-storey bronze tower above.
At the heart of this proposal is our commitment to deliver a scheme that respects and celebrates the history and heritage of The Hotspur Press – and we will be guided by a heritage framework to ensure a conscientious approach to the regeneration and renewal of this iconic place.
Rebuilding the iconic façade
The elevations that were due to be retained as part of the previous proposal will now be rebuilt, including the east elevation fronting Cambridge Street, which is no longer standing, and the elevations facing the River Medlock and the railway arches. The iconic Hotspur Press and Percy Brothers signs will also be remade and reinstated.
The remaining structures that have been badly fire damaged and are not suitable or safe for reuse will be taken down.
The residential tower
Above the reinstated lower floors, a 35 –storey, 619 bedroom residential tower with a high quality bronze finish will accentuate the depth and richness of the façade while still allowing a visual separation from the rebuilt brick walls – ensuring both elements remain connected.
New public square
Our plans for the site also include a new 10,000 sq ft public square and the opportunity to create a future pedestrian link to the First Street development.
The palisade wall along Cambridge Street will be rebuilt as part of a welcoming entrance to the public square.
Our scheme also include the creation of new commercial space at ground floor which will help activate the new public square and provide a new facility to serve the local community, with the objective to bring an independent retail or food and drink business to the location. The square also provides the opportunity to open up railway arches which front onto it providing further opportunities additional facilities and services to be provided to support the local community.
Community engagement
Our conversations with local residents have helped to shape our plans at every stage in the planning process – and we will continue to engage with our local community as we progress.
We meet regularly with neighbouring resident groups and other stakeholders to update them on our plans and to discuss next steps. Our commitment is to work with the community to ensure the redeveloped site becomes a focal point for the neighbourhood has a positive impact beyond the limits of the site. We look forward to working with the community to explore this potential
The view from First Street
How The Hotspur Press will look from Cambridge Street
The new public square - an evening view of the well-lit and inviting new public square from Cambridge Street
The Hotspur Press as viewed from a passing train
About Manner
Manner's roots are firmly established in the development of regenerative city centre projects. Working with local communities and stakeholders, we’re driven by a vision to transform outmoded buildings into exceptional places that will carve the trajectory of the urban landscape for generations to come.
We understand the importance of heritage, such as that associated with The Hotspur Press, and our track record speaks to an unwavering dedication to deliver buildings of the highest architectural integrity, which respect the historical significance of their local areas, yet embrace modern city living.
Acting as both Developer and Operator, we take a long-term approach, meaning we value the importance of building strong relationships with local residents, ensuring we create places which are deeply rooted in their neighbourhoods and that enable diverse communities to flourish. In doing so, we recognise the positive Regenerative Value Creation this can deliver for our people, places and planet.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please get in touch: enquiries@hotspurpressmanchester.co.uk