Construction of the building for the Manchester School of Technology began in 1895 on a site formerly occupied by Sir Joseph Whitworth's engineering works; it was opened in 1902 by the then Prime Minister, Arthur Balfour.

Originally, a swimming pool was planned for the top floor, but after concerns that the weight of water might cause structural issues, it was instead used as a dug-in gymnasium and in more recent years as an examination hall.

The later part of the building was built on the site of St Augustine's Church, the third Roman Catholic chapel in Manchester.

[citation needed] In the estates strategy for 2010–2020 for the University of Manchester,[8] it is stated that essentially all of the former UMIST campus, described as the "area north of the Mancunian Way", is to be disposed of.

The vice-chancellor of Manchester University, Dame Nancy Rothwell, has stated that a fitting use must be found for this "fine old building".