Approved plans to build a 37-storey student tower and save the derelict mill building threatened to be scuppered after an anonymous individual made an application for the building to be listed.

More than 800 members of the public including residents, politicians and business leaders joined Manner’s campaign to proceed and save the mill which has stood derelict since 2017.

595 student bed student tower cleared to start

Now the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has decided not to list The Hotspur Press ending eight months of uncertainty hanging over the scheme.

It is understood that Bowmer & Kirkland has had talks with the developer.

Richard James, managing director at Manner, said: “This is a huge win for the local community and the City, who in partnership with Manner, have made their collective voices heard.

“I want to thank the 822 residents, councillors, business leaders and Manchester City Council who supported our campaign to save The Hotspur Press and allow its regeneration to go ahead.

“We also thank DCMS for their decision not to list The Hotspur Press. However, it does not feel right that one anonymous application can lead to eight months of delay and uncertainty.

“We now look forward and reaffirm our commitment made to the community, the city and the regeneration of this iconic building.”

Existing mill building

The Hotspur Press was built and operated as a Cotton Mill, before it later became a printing press. The regeneration of The Hotspur Press will restore much of the existing brick exterior, celebrate the heritage of the building and will include student accommodation.