Manchester’s Historic Hotspur Press Reduced to Ashes in Devastating Fire
So, today I want to talk about something that’s really shaken the heart of Manchester — the massive fire that tore through the iconic Hotspur Press building. It’s been all over the news, and if you’ve seen the photos or videos, you’ll know just how heartbreaking it is. That structure wasn’t just brick and mortar — it was part of the city’s soul.
The Hotspur Press, also known historically as Medlock Mill, dates back to the 1800s. It started as a cotton mill on the banks of the River Medlock before being transformed into a printing press in 1902. For nearly a century, it stood as a symbol of Manchester’s industrious spirit. When it finally closed its doors in 1996, it fell into disrepair, a quiet shadow of its former self among the city’s fast-developing skyline.
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But despite its derelict state, the building still carried historical weight. It was supposed to be reborn — plans were in place to redevelop it into a 37-storey student accommodation block. Developer Manner had gotten approval last year and even tweaked their design recently, promising to respect the site’s heritage. However, those plans are now engulfed in smoke — quite literally.
On Monday, fire broke out and quickly escalated, reducing the building to a smouldering ruin. The flames were so intense they caused parts of the structure, including the roof, to collapse. The fire service had to deploy 20 engines, including aerial units, just to contain it. Smoke was visible for miles. Trains through Manchester Oxford Road station were cancelled, and two nearby apartment blocks had to be evacuated. Some residents have been allowed back, but the area remains cordoned off.
Authorities are still investigating the cause. There’s no official word yet from Manner, but this event will certainly change everything for the site’s future. The response from the community has been one of real shock. Tour guide Jonathan Schofield summed it up best: “It’s a shock… now it’s a shell.” And he’s right — for those who’ve walked past it for decades, guided tours around it, or just appreciated its presence, it’s like a piece of Manchester has disappeared overnight.
Council leader Bev Craig has assured that support is being provided to those affected, and everyone’s being advised to avoid the area and keep their windows shut because of the smoke. It’s a sobering reminder of how fragile our heritage can be, especially in a modern city where development often runs ahead of preservation.
This wasn’t just a fire. It was a farewell — sudden, destructive, and deeply sad. And while the city will rebuild, what we’ve lost in the Hotspur Press is something no new high-rise can replace.
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