Developers of a derelict former mill in Manchester city centre said they were “devastated” by the huge fire which tore through the 225-year-old building.
Flames whipped up by a strong wind spread quickly through the dry, wooden internal structure of the Hotspur Press building on Monday, causing its roof and some walls to collapse.
Red-hot embers from the fire set some balconies on a neighbouring student apartment block alight. More than 100 people were evacuated while train services running through the nearby Oxford Road railway station were suspended.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said some of the mill’s remaining structure would have to be demolished.
London-based developer Manner, which had obtained planning permission to convert the site into a 37-storey tower block, said Monday’s fire was “truly heart-breaking”.
A spokesperson said: “Over the last two years we have worked conscientiously to develop a plan for the regeneration of The Hotspur Press that would celebrate its rich history and heritage.
“We are absolutely devastated to see the extent of the damage that has been caused, and it is incredibly hard to come to terms with what is now left of this important building.”
Manner said it was assisting the fire service with its investigation into the cause of the fire.
The building closed as a printing press in 1996 after 94 years.
Manner’s plans for the site included retaining the original façadeand well-known ‘Percy Brothers’ signage.
A student tower, clad in bronze, was set to rise above the façade.
An earlier version of the project, with the tower clad in brick, was given planning permission in May 2024.
However, work could not start because an application to list the building was submitted to the government shortly afterwards.
The application was rejected in January, but re-submitted for a review.
