Transformation of ‘significant and prominent’ 1970s office block in Hull gets underway

Work has started on a multi-million pound transformation of a prominent building in the centre of Hull.

The £6m redevelopment of King William House will see the 1970s office building turned into apartments above a retail arcade.

Construction firm The Broadley Group is working with a York-based property syndicate on the scheme, which includes a modern new façade.

King William House is located on the corner of Market Place and Liberty Lane, in the heart of Hull’s Old Town conservation area.

The building’s first, second and third floors will become 30 one- and two-bedroom apartments. On the ground level, the scheme will create nine retails units fronting onto Market Place.

Broadley will also reclad the whole building with colour palettes and glass areas to reflect views of the Grade I-listed Hull Minster, situated opposite.

Ian Campbell, managing director at Broadley, said: “This building had largely sat empty in recent years, which is a shame for such a significant and prominent city centre asset, so it’s hugely rewarding to be on site creating a new lease of life for it.

“We’re currently stripping the building back internally and carrying out a wide range of repairs, before we start refurbishing and re-cladding it, which will ensure it enjoys a new, successful and sustainable future.”

The redevelopment was designed by Leeds-based Brewster Bye Architects.

Brewster Bye MD Chris Austin commented: “Although King William House was once a modern office building that was originally designed to stand out and make a statement, more than 40 years on it had become tired and looked very dated.

“As well as creating a fantastic selection of homes and retail outlets, our design will give the building a fresh and modern appearance that is much more sympathetic to its surroundings and Hull Minster, which is one of the city’s most significant buildings.”

He added: “It’s really pleasing to see our designs coming to life and there’s no doubt it will greatly improve the local streetscape and Hull’s Old Town conservation area as a whole.”

The project is due for completion in Summer 2019.