Statement as crews tackle large fire at Hotspur Press building in Manchester City Centre

June 24 - 9.40am update

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “Yesterday afternoon (Monday 23 June) at around 4:30pm, firefighters were called to a major fire at the site of the Hotspur Press building on Cambridge Street in Manchester city centre. This was declared a major incident.

“Firefighters have been working hard overnight to extinguish the fire. At the height of the blaze, over 20 fire engines, two aerial units and over 100 firefighters were working at the scene in warm and humid conditions.

“The fire spread to several balconies at the two tower blocks at number 1 Cambridge Street, and we took the decision to evacuate all residents. Firefighters worked tirelessly to ensure all occupants made it out of the buildings safely and there are no reports of any occupants suffering ill health.

“Shortly after 9pm, the major incident was lifted. The occupants of one of those blocks have now been able to return home, while the other remains closed as we work with Manchester City Council and the building owner to make the building habitable again. 

“Oxford Road station and the railway line have now reopened. Crews are still working on Gloucester St and the main area around the mill, but the main roads of Whitworth St and access off the Mancunian Way have reopened.

“Crews will be joined by specialist fire officers later this morning to begin investigating the cause of the fire, as well as assessing the extent of the structural damage to the building.

“We’d like to thank the public for allowing us to get on with the job last night under very challenging conditions.”

23rd June - 7:40pm update

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: 

“Crews are currently tackling a major fire at the site of the Hotspur Press building on Cambridge Street in Manchester City Centre.

“Twenty fire engines from across Greater Manchester are tackling the blaze which has spread to three floors of the building. Two aerial units are in use to prevent the spread of the fire.

“The two apartment blocks at number 1 Cambridge Street have been evacuated.

“A cordon is in place on Cambridge Street and we ask that the public stay away from the area. Residents nearby should keep doors and windows closed due to smoke in the area.”

Article Published: 23/06/2025 19:44 PM