£30m plans lodged to transform city gateway

Proposals for a major £30m development, which would transform Hull city centre if approved, have been submitted to planners.

The plan for Shirethorn House and the adjacent land and buildings at the corner of Ferensway and Spencer Street, features more than 250 residential and retail units and includes new townhouses and an internal winter garden for residents.

The development will incorporate the look of nearby historic buildings while adding modern elements, including three towers – one reaching up to 14 storeys.

Hull City Council has welcomed the proposals, saying they demonstrate the continued confidence in the Hull economy, adding the project will help to further regenerate the city centre.

The proposal has been lodged by FFH Ferensway and supported by Ferensway Developments.

The company says it aims to cater for a “shifting demographic” in people wanting to live in the city centre.

In addition to one and two bed apartments for young professionals, the development will feature three bed apartments and townhouses for families.

A range of commercial units and amenity spaces will also be created to provide key services for the residents rather than offering alternatives to other businesses in the city centre.

FFH Ferensway is leading the project. Director Steve Crane said: “Hull City Council still has a positive and forward-looking view and that has provided us with confidence to invest in the city.

“Collaboration has been key to making this project a reality and the feedback we’ve had so far has been fantastic.

“This site is at a key gateway to the city centre and it will be a fitting addition to the city council’s plans to regenerate Hull.

“We have delivered a number of projects in Hull in recent years and they have been really well received.

“This is a landmark building and we’ll transform it to something modern and fit for the future of the city centre while respecting and enhancing the modern elements.”

Councillor Daren Hale, Hull City Council’s portfolio holder for economic investment and regeneration, said: “Hull City Council has ambitious plans to regenerate the city centre and this development will be key to realising those ambitions.

“These developers have a strong track record of success in delivering fantastic projects in Hull and we’re excited to be working with them again.

“This project will be a striking addition to Hull and it will provide high quality homes as people look to move back into the city centre once again.”

Andy Mowbray, managing director of Ferensway Developments, added: “We have always had confidence in the city and this will be an iconic development for Hull.

“City centres are changing and the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated this. This project will help to reconnect people with the city centre as a place to live again and show that there are great experiences to be had here.”