Police issue statement after fire at iconic Midland Hotel as investigation continues

It is currently unclear whether the fire at the Midland Hotel was started deliberately, police have said. A blaze broke out at the iconic Grade Ii listed building shortly before 4am in the early hours of this morning (Tuesday, December 9).

Five fire engines rushed to the historic building on Peter Street in the city centre after a fire engulfed one of the entrances. Greater Manchester Fire Service (GMFRS) said it involved a doorway and trellis.

Some of the several dozen firefighters who responded donned breathing apparatus as they tackled the blaze. They were on the scene for around an hour and a half.

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The doorway on Mount Street at the side of the building, which leads to the Mount Street Dining Room and Bar, which is run by the hotel, remained cordoned off with both police and fire service tape today.

Police officers were said to have attended the scene on Tuesday. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they were now investigating the incident.

They said they had not yet determined if the fire was started deliberately or not. A spokesperson said: "It’s unclear at this stage if there are any suspicious circumstances. Enquiries are ongoing."

Scorch marks and fire damage could today be seen around the doorway. The Mount Street Dining Room and Bar is currently closed though this is said to be unrelated to the fire. Its Instagram page posted a week ago saying that it would be closed until January 18.

Despite repeated requests from the M.E.N, the hotel have so far refused to comment on the incident.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At just before 3:50 this morning (Tuesday, January 9) five