New façade lighting in bid to revitalise historic Whitefriargate

By Simon Bristow

Façade lighting is being installed on four buildings in Whitefriargate in a bid to increase the street’s shopping and hospitality experiences.

The scheme will see the lighting installed at numbers 4-6, 24-28, 40-43 and 55 Whitefriargate.

The lighting will highlight the street’s architecture and heritage, as well as making it easier to signpost people around this unique part of Hull’s Old Town.

The project is being funding by Historic England through the High Street Heritage Action Zone and is expected to take around eight weeks to complete.

Hull City Council said it is determined to take action to improve Whitefriargate which has been “hit by a decline in traditional shops, made worse by the pandemic”.

This investment will make the outdoor space more attractive for people while they are enjoying the shops, hospitality and attractions. This extends into the evenings, where the façade lighting will help support night-time economy.

Councillor Paul Drake-Davis, city council portfolio holder for regeneration, said: “Whitefriargate is a key retail area and pedestrian route in Hull.

“It is characterised by impressive heritage buildings, with a number of façades of special historical interest and relevance to our city’s history.

“By applying sympathetic lighting, it is possible to capitalise on this underused asset, enhance local heritage and create a more appealing environment for new and existing businesses to flourish.”

The Grade II-listed building at 4-6 Whitefriargate was built in 1830 for Trinity House in Georgian style and is currently in commercial use.

Another built for Trinity House was 24-28 Whitefriargate, also a Grade II-listed Georgian building, which has residential uses above.

The neoclassical 40-43 Whitefriargate is currently in commercial use and was first built for Marks & Spencer in 1933.

At 55 Whitefriargate, the former Yorkshire Bank is now the home of Bar 55 and is a Grade II-listed Renaissance revival building.

Craig Broadwith, from Historic England, said: “We are pleased to be supporting the new lighting on Whitefriargate through the High Street Heritage Action Zone.

“The scheme will help to showcase the street’s impressive historic buildings and make it a more attractive and enjoyable place to visit.”