Hull transformation plan under spotlight

AMBITIOUS plans make Hull a ‘world-class visitor destination’ and support the creation of thousands of new jobs is to be considered by council bosses.

The plans have been developed as part of the ten-year City Plan that also aims to create the confidence and conditions for more private sector-led inward investment and growth.

It will also look to maximise the benefits and economic impact of Hull’s year as UK City of Culture 2017.

The report includes an estimate that a £78m investment of capital funding from the council over the next five years will generate a further £47m in government grants and over £260m in private-sector funding, supporting Hull’s transformation.

This is expected to create over 1,400 construction jobs and 1,300 long term jobs, delivering an estimated £600m boost to the local economy each year.

Proposals include developing the Fruit Market to be Hull’s cultural quarter, housing digital, creative, craft, leisure and retail businesses, and extending Hull New Theatre so that it can stage bigger and more ambitious shows.

A plan to create an iconic footbridge over the A63 reconnecting the Marina to the city centre is also proposed.

Hull City Council leader Stephen Brady said: “Investing in the city is the key to a successful and prosperous future, and this proposed programme of major investment is being led by the council to ensure this.

“With increasing pressure on our revenue budgets we recognise that capital investment is required to create the jobs the city needs.

“It is essential that we are ready, not just for our year in the spotlight in 2017, but in the years that come after it. We want to create a city that our residents, businesses and visitors are proud of and it is developments like this that will unlock our potential to be a place that people want to live, work and play.”