City centre jobs boost as almost 300 posts created at call centre after £750,000 Levelling Up grant

INVESTMENT: Hammonds of Hull

By Simon Bristow

Almost 300 new jobs will be created at Hull city centre’s Hammonds of Hull building, thanks to a Government grant awarded to call centre firm ResQ by the city council.

The second floor of Hammonds of Hull will be renovated and brought back into use by the company, which currently occupies the first floor.

In a council Decision Record published today, a Levelling Up grant of £750,000 has been awarded to ResQ Limited, who will expand their current operations.

The funding will be used to refurbish the second floor including the creation of office and reception areas with new doors, walls, handrails and fob-controlled entry and exits. There will also be the installation of new electrics, plumbing and heating and decoration throughout.

The total project cost is just over £2m, the council said.

Garry Taylor, assistant director of major projects, culture & place, said: “This project shows real commitment from ResQ Limited to a key city centre heritage building, with the creation of almost 300 jobs – a huge benefit to the city.

“The Levelling Up Funding scheme continues to benefit many buildings and businesses in the city and this is another great example of this.”

The future of the ground floor of the landmark building remains uncertain, however, following the closure of an artisan foodhall, which opened in November 2021 amid a blaze of publicity.