Yesterday (June 23), saw the Hotspur Press, a landmark Manchester city centre building, destroyed by a major fire. Flames are currently still being put out by Greater Manchester fire services and some disruptions to rail services and road travel are still ongoing.
The Hotspur Press building on Cambridge Street, neighbouring Manchester Oxford Road railway station, was engulfed by the blaze on Monday evening, leading to its partial collapse.
According to a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said yesterday evening that twenty fire engines from across Greater Manchester were tackling the blaze which has spread to three floors of the building. Two aerial units were also in use to prevent the spread of the fire.
GMFRS also added that two apartment blocks at number 1 Cambridge Street have been evacuated. A cordon is in place on Cambridge Street and the fire service ask that the public stay away from the area. Residents nearby should keep doors and windows closed due to smoke in the area.
Latest Manchester train travel updates due to Hotspur Press fire
Lines running through Manchester Oxford Road railway station were closed on Monday evening as the blaze erupted. However, most services are now running through the station with railway lines reopened. National Rail said “residual” disruption was expected until 10.00 BST on Tuesday 24th June.
Transpennine Express said any passengers whose journeys were affected by the fire at Manchester Oxford Road may use their tickets to travel today (Tuesday, 24th June). However some Transpennine Express trains this morning (June 24) will not be calling at Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Oxford Road, Bolton and Stockport due to the Hotspur Press fire next to the track at Manchester Oxford Road. Check for travel updates here.
Road closures due to Manchester fire
Whitworth Street West is also partially closed whilst the fire services tackle the blaze.
Comment from Manchester City Council
Reacting to the major fire incident at the former mill building yesterday evening, Leader of the Council, Cllr Bev Craig, said: “We’ve been working closely with emergency response colleagues this evening following the major fire incident at the Hotspur Press building. Evacuated residents are now being supported at a nearby rest centre.
“A cordon remains around Cambridge Street along with local road closures, and we thank people for taking fire service advice to avoid the area while crews continue to work at the site. Those living nearby should also continue to keep windows and doors shut to avoid smoke.
“A final thank you to the city’s emergency personnel for their ongoing efforts tonight, acting quickly to keep the fire under control and keeping our residents safe.”
