Peterloo campaigners hold protest at Britons Protection pub saying new skyscraper next to it would 'trample on our history'

Campaigners used the anniversary of the Peterloo Massacre to protest against a proposed new tower block next to a pub linked to the infamous tragedy.

Today, Tuesday, August 16, marked the 203rd anniversary of the massacre where armed cavalry attacked a peaceful rally of around 60,000 pro-democracy reformers in what was then St Peter's Field, near what is today St Peter's Square, in Manchester city centre killing an estimated 18 people and injuring around 700 others.

It is seen as one of the most pivotal moments in British history. Members of the Peterloo Memorial campaign today gathered at the memorial outside Manchester Central where the names of all the known victims, and some facts about them, were read aloud.

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A minute's silence was also held in their memory and flowers laid on the memorial which was opened in 2019.

Members of the group then held a demonstration next to the Briton's Protection pub. The legendary city centre watering hole, on the corner of of Albion Street and Great Bridgewater Street dates back to 1811.

Local experts say it is one of only three buildings, along with the Friend's Meeting House and The Sir Ralph Abercromby pub off Deansgate, from the time of the massacre still standing in the area of St Peter's Field.

Folklore says some of the injured were brought to the Briton's Protection after the attack and the pub has historically helped preserve the memory of the atrocity. Its sign depicts a scene from the massacre and there are murals on the walls inside.

A developer has applied for planning permission to build a 26-storey office and apartment block,. which would be called Apex Tower, on a tiny car park next door to the pub.

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