The 37-storey development will sprout from the old Hotspur Press mill building on Cambridge Street
London developer Manner’s first Manchester based project, a 595-bed student accommodation scheme in the old Hotspur Press mill building has been given the green light from city planners.
Designed by architects Hodder + Partners, the plans will preserve much of the Victorian building’s existing brick exterior, taking the style up the 37-storey brick clad tower.
Student rooms will be in the tower, whilst the lower floors of the mill will be occupied by commercial space.
Community feedback has been incorporated into the design
A planning application for the regeneration of The Hotspur Press on Cambridge Street was submitted to Manchester City Council in December 2023.
Following feedback from the community, the ground floor commercial space has been enlarged and remains a central part of the development.
Slight changes have now been made to the scheme and mainly relate to the internal layout of the building, including a small reduction in the height and width of the tower.
Procurement for the main works contract, expected to cost around £80m, will get underway next month.
Redevelopment of the Hotspur Press building is due to complete in May 2028
Richard James, managing director of Manner, said:“We are confident the redevelopment and the creation of a new public square, independent outlets and public art, will be a fantastic addition to this part of the city centre – delivering a range of benefits for the local community as well as much needed accommodation for students.
“As we prepare for the construction phase to get underway, we will continue our engagement with the local community and help facilitate opportunities to develop plans that will celebrate the historical and cultural significance of this part of the city centre.”
Construction is scheduled to start in early 2025, with completion due May 2028, with plenty of time for the start of the 2029 academic year.
