Hull city centre’s King William House is attracting “exciting levels of interest” from leisure operators following a £6 million investment and the arrival of a first tenant.
The Old Town building has a new exterior, with upper floors converted into apartments prior to the pandemic.
Commercial aspects were put on hold as Covid-19 took a grip, but activity has kicked back from the start of the year, with Tesco Express opening there.
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Paul White, agency director at commercial property specialists Garness Jones, which is handling the development, said businesses interest have the potential to attract high numbers of visitors.
“King William House has always been an important redevelopment for the city given its location, and it is one we have been determined to remain patient on and get right,” he said.
“It bridges the gap between Whitefriargate, which is beginning to benefit from investment and a clear regeneration focus backed by all, and Hull Marina and Fruit Market, which of course is now a thriving jewel in the city’s crown.
“Following the recent opening of Tesco, which was a really important vote of confidence in the development from such a major retailer, we have held encouraging talks with a leisure operator which has the potential to attract a lot of visitors, and also with food and beverage operators.
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“We have exciting levels of interest which gives us confidence of being able to make more positive announcements in the near future.
“We have seen from recent developments how well mixed use developments can work.
“Filling buildings entirely with retail outlets or offices is not always the answer in modern times, but a mix of businesses can really attract good numbers and be of benefit to all who are based there.”
Previously home to Argos and law firm Myer Wolff - later incorporated into Pepperells Solicitors - remaining units in the 1970s former bank and office block offer ‘flexible space’ for variety of uses, including retail, office, bars, cafes and restaurants - all purposes for which Hull City Council has already given its consent.
“The building really does present a great opportunity for those looking to open a new venture in Hull, or enter the city for the first time, as there is so much flexibility with regards space,” Mr White said. “That has added to its appeal to leisure operators.
“It is great to be able to talk to prospective tenants and have a genuine story to tell about the city’s regeneration and its progress.”
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