Manchester gives consent for 700 student beds

Manner’s 37-storey redevelopment of the derelict Hotspur Press site was unanimously approved, while Jadebricks’ 15-storey Charles Street scheme was also given the go-ahead at the second time of asking. 

London-based developer Manner submitted its plans for the Hotspur Press site, which has long foxed developers, last year. In its debut Manchester project, the firm proposes a scheme reaching up to 37 storeys, intending to retain the historic press building’s façade. 

The Manner project, designed by Hodder + Partners, comes five years after plans by Elmloch for a 171-home, 28-storey residential complex on the site were put forward but not enacted.  

Manner’s scheme would comprise 595 student bedrooms in a mix of studio and four-, five- and seven-cluster apartments. There would be 253 clusters and 342 studios. Turley is the planning consultant for the project. 

Under the plans, permission is sought for the partial demolition of the Hotspur Press complex in a part four/five storey and part-37 storey scheme. 

The development, at a high-profile Cambridge Street plot close to Oxford Road station would be managed by student sector specialist Fresh, and will include a square opening out onto First Street. 

Richard James, managing director of Manner, said: “We are delighted to have secured planning permission for the redevelopment of The Hotspur Press.  

“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 anticipated to get underway early in 2025, with completion due for the 2028 academic year. 

The Charles Street project will provide 107 units. Credit: Our Studio

Jadebricks’ proposals for a 15-storey, 107-bed development on Charles Street were approved following deferral for a site visit in March. The plans attracted 16 objections, including two from businesses adjoining the site – a nursery and an MOT garage. 

However, the planning committee saw fit to approve the scheme in line with officer recommendations. 

Turley is again the planner, with SimpsonHaugh as architect. 

The site, close to Circle Square at the former BBC complex, is bounded by Charles Street, a railway viaduct, Bracken House and York Street. It was cleared in the 1960 and has been used as a 15-space car park, currently being used as a compound for works at Bracken House. 

Mike Bathurst, managing director of Jadebricks, said: “These plans were born out of a commitment to provide new and returning students with modern, high-quality accommodation. This much needed development is integral to ensuring we can continue to meet the needs of our student population by delivering well-connected, serviced, modern accommodation in a supportive and inclusive environment.” 

Manner’s reference number on the Manchester planning portal is 138805/FO/2023, and Jadebricks’ 138808/FO/2023.