The restoration of a historic Hull city centre building has completed as new owners look forward to a very contemporary use.
Hobson & Porter, working for Shires Estates Investments, has renovated the Grade II-listed 52-53 Whitefriargate, readying it for occupation, with retail and restaurant plans including the potential for a roof-top bar.
The project with the late 18th century building has been supported with a grant from Historic England and Hull City Council, as an extension of the Humber High Street Challenge Fund. Work included the conversion of the upper levels to support future use, with the flat roof converted into a terrace.
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City-based Hobson & Porter also replaced the shop fronts, roofs and completely renovated the external elevations, which included the stone window surrounds, rendering, decoration and traditional timberwork.
Sam Robertson, minor works manager at the £46 million turnover construction firm, said: “We take great pride in refurbishing local iconic buildings so that they can be preserved and enjoyed by future generations. Our work reflects the traditional methods of construction, with high levels of craftsmanship, that have been key to the building’s longevity for more than 200 years.
“This project really showcases the capabilities of our skilled team and supply chain, and what we can deliver. We enjoyed working with Wren Architecture and bringing the company’s vision for the building to life. With more development works planned for Whitefriargate and the surrounding area, we have already received enquiries about several other exciting projects nearby.”
Originally a town house, 52-53 Whitefriargate has gone through many changes and alterations in over 200 years. In the 19th century it was converted into a shop on the ground floor. At the upper levels it had been a library in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In the Sixties a fire destroyed the second floor overlooking Whitefriargate, and it was never replaced. The unit had fallen into a state of disrepair before it was purchased and invested in by Shires, attracting tenant LW Flowers, with plans to open up a rooftop bar and extended restaurant space.
Sam added: “Whitefriargate is a historic high street in Hull where 60 per cent of the buildings are Grade II or Grade II* listed. The area, including Silver Street and Hepworths Arcade, has been declared a Heritage Action Zone opening access to funds administered by the city council and Historic England and we are honoured to have played a part in ensuring a brighter future for the building, its tenants, and the local community.”
It follows the overhaul of 55 Whitefriargate - the former HSBC bank - now the headquarters for construction and tech-focused The 55 Group.
Some of the 119-strong team at Hobson & Porter have recently re-roofed the Guildhall and are restoring its time ball and internal mechanism. The company is also restoring Albert Avenue Baths and its historic lido, having completed 79 Lowgate and Beverley Road Baths.
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