Manner Unveils Plans to Transform Hotspur Press into State-of-the-Art Student Accommodation

The London-based developer, Manner, has submitted plans to Manchester City Council for the revitalization of Hotspur Press in the Oxford Road Corridor, presenting a PBSA scheme.

The envisioned scheme, situated on Cambridge Street in Manchester, aims to preserve the majority of the existing brick facade and honour the building's heritage.

If approved, the scheme would comprise 36 stories of student accommodation, a new public square, and improvements to the connected public realm for the wider community. The development could provide up to 578 new student beds, complete with various amenities such as shared study areas and communal spaces.

The Hotspur Press project will follow a design philosophy that respects the region's heritage by integrating a range of low to zero-carbon technologies, resulting in a modern yet sustainable structure. The proposed car-free measures seek to attain an Excellent environmental performance rating.

Supporting thriving independent businesses is a key aspect of the plan, prominently featured on the ground floor of the building. Additionally, the public realm will be expanded by introducing new trees and a commitment to enhancing the nearby River Medlock, improving the wildlife and biodiversity of the area.

Turley has served as the planning consultant for the application. The architectural design of the proposed building is attributed to Hodder + Partners, with Macgregor Smith providing expertise in landscape design. Fresh Student Living is due to work alongside Manner to develop a tailored management plan for the proposed scheme.

Public input on the proposal was actively sought in October and November through an online webinar and a consultation website, providing information about the Hotspur Press regeneration. Individuals were encouraged to participate in an online survey.

Richard James, the Managing Director at Manner, commented: "Thank you to everyone who has taken part in the community engagement and taken the time to provide feedback on our plans. The feedback gathered during the consultation has helped to shape the proposals further.

"We're proud to be bringing forward this proposal for The Hotspur Press. The building is in a prime, sustainable area of the city centre, within walking distance of Manchester's universities, while also close to the social and cultural offer this part of the city has on its doorstep.

"Working with Hodder + Partners, we have been able to bring our shared experience to preserve much of the iconic facade, recognising that The Hotspur Press is an important part of Manchester's industrial past. Its regeneration will provide an opportunity to deliver a new public space for the area, and our aspiration is to create an attractive and accessible space for residents and neighbours to enjoy."