New nine-storey hotel with rooftop sky bar to create 120 jobs

Plans have been unveiled for a nine-storey hotel with rooftop sky bar in Hull city centre as part of a scheme that would also secure the future of the Earl De Grey pub.

A planning application was submitted by Castle Buildings LLP, a joint venture of Hull-based developer Wykeland Group and Princes Quay Developments, owner of Princes Quay Shopping Centre.

The plans comprise the renovation of the Castle Buildings site, close to the new Bonus Arena, revamp two historic buildings that have been derelict for many years and deliver a new hotel in Hull city centre.

The development would involve a £20m investment and create around 120 jobs.

The proposed 52,000 sq ft hotel will have 150 bedrooms and a rooftop sky bar with south-facing terrace offering views over the Marina, the Old Town and the Humber estuary.

The scheme also includes the relocation of the main part of the former Earl De Grey pub and refurbishment of the neighbouring Castle Street Chambers building, as well as creating a new, area of public realm, including a south-facing piazza.

The development will create a new pedestrian route from the Bonus Arena to the new Princes Quay footbridge, currently under construction.

The plans have been reviewed and supported by an independent Design Panel which concluded the proposals for the listed buildings were “a clever and rational response, which optimises the qualities of both buildings”.

Castle Street Chambers and the Earl De Grey buildings are both Grade-II listed.

As part of the new plans, the Earl De Grey and Castle Street Chambers buildings would be completely renovated and linked by a new glazed extension, and operate as restaurants, cafés, bars or potential office use.

Jonathan Stubbs, development director of Wykeland, speaking on behalf of Castle Buildings, said: “These plans are the result of a great deal of consideration and consultation to create a development that unlocks the potential of this key site.

“The proposals respect the past while also looking to the future, by restoring and bringing back to use two historic buildings that might otherwise reach the point of no return and introducing a landmark new structure to the city skyline.

“The proposed hotel will provide much-needed quality accommodation for visitors in a superb location opposite the Bonus Arena and within easy walking distance of the city centre, Old Town, Marina and Fruit Market.

“The development will bring major new investment into the city centre and provide a significant economic stimulus. It will also enhance Hull’s appeal to visitors and create a showpiece new area linking the city centre and waterfront.”

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