Firefighters in ‘stay away’ alert for derelict venue
PARTYGOERS were warned that they could DIE if they attended an all-night illegal concert at Manchester’s Hulme Hippodrome last night.
Fire chiefs urged people to stay away from the all-night heavy metal gig at the iconic city landmark - which crews say is ‘dangerous’.
It is understood the gig was due to start at 10pm last night and run until 9am this morning.
The venue was once host to musical legends but has been closed to the public for decades.
In recent months, squatters have held events such as Hulme Hippo Jam, described as ‘a small laid-back affair’ with tea, poetry and jazz.
But Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) says attending the latest event could put revellers’ and firefighters’ lives at risk.
In a statement issued yesterday, fire chiefs said: “We are aware of a planned event at Hulme Hippodrome.
“This building is dangerous and is currently subject to a Prohibition Notice.
“This means the building must not be used by members of the public as a place of assembly, for entertainment purposes, parties or community events.
“Anyone entering the premises is placing themselves at risk of death or serious injury in the event of a fire.
“If you enter the premises you may commit a criminal offence.
“GMFRS officers have today visited the venue to ask the organisers to cancel the event and we encourage people to stay away from the building for their own safety, and the safety of our firefighters should there be a fire.”
Firefighters were due to be posted outside the venue throughout last night.