Residential developer Manner has launched a public consultation on its plans for Manchester’s historic Hotspur Press. Situated in an important city centre location and within close walking distance of the universities, Manner’s proposal for The Hotspur Press will deliver around 550 bedrooms across circa 35 storeys, with a range of amenities for residents including shared study areas and communal spaces.
The Hotspur Press stands as a reminder of Manchester’s industrial heritage. Built on the bank of the Medlock in 1801, this former cotton mill has had many uses since – but is now in a state of disrepair.
With the important heritage of the area and the interests of the local community in mind, the project will respond in two important ways. It will preserve the existing iconic brick façade and signage of The Hotspur Press, and it will rejuvenate the surrounding area to give a more open setting to the historic building and create a new public space for wider community interaction use and connectivity.
“As part of our regeneration of The Hotspur Press, we will conscientiously restore the façade of this truly iconic building, and deliver a new public space within its grounds, which we hope will become a natural destination for the local community. Our aim is to create an environment which is welcoming, safe, and accessible for our residents and our neighbours to enjoy, with thriving independent businesses bringing a special character to the place. We will curate this space in consultation with the local community and welcome all engagement and feedback on our proposals.”
Richard James, Managing Director (MD), Manner
The Hotspur Press development is situated close to the city’s two main university campuses, social facilities and transport hubs. Ideally located for students who tend to cycle, walk or use public transport, the proposals will support the ongoing regeneration of the First Street area and improve links between First Street and Oxford Road.
The current undersupply of student beds is due to several factors, but mainly is a result of the increasing interest in Manchester as a prime destination for learning, together with Manchester’s global cultural status. The overspill currently sees students commuting from as far away as Liverpool and Huddersfield, which cannot be regarded as sustainable or economically sensible.
Without well-managed and high-quality accommodation for students supporting their study, health and wellbeing, there is additional pressure on the city’s housing supply with students taking existing homes that could be lived in by working households, families and single people. Expanding the supply of PBSA in this part of the city provides a solution to this issue to free up apartments and other housing for the good of the immediate area.
The First Stage Public Consultation invites feedback until Thursday, 26 October 2023. A public webinar which will provide more information about the proposals is taking place on Thursday, 19 October 2023 between 6-7pm.
