From jamie.goodwin@hullcc.gov.uk | Monday 3 February 2020
The plans by developers Allenby Commercial would see the building on the corner of Anlaby Road and Ferensway rebranded as Monocle.
Plans for the transformation of one of Hull’s landmark buildings have been approved.
Work to redevelop the distinctive gold-clad Europa House could start within months after permission was granted for an upgrade that could create 600 new jobs.
The plans by developers Allenby Commercial would see the building on the corner of Anlaby Road and Ferensway rebranded as Monocle.
It will feature modern office space to attract a range of businesses to the building, which was built in 1975.
A stylish cafe-bar and lounge area would be added to the ground floor of the six-storey building under the plans, as well as a secure entrance to offices above for tenants who will have exclusive use of a roof terrace cafe.
Charlie Allenby, development manager at Allenby Commercial, said: “We’re in discussions now with a number of potential tenants who have been attracted by the location of Monocle, offering the widest range of transport options, and by the concept of combining office space with leisure and relaxation facilities.
“Europa House has been a landmark for more than 40 years yet was still hidden away to a degree. Monocle will stand out for its design and will also be opened up with areas to entice and excite the public.”
Allenby Commercial has delivered Hull city centre renovations including office space at Minster Corner and WORX, the acclaimed Hideout Hotel regenerated from ageing retail and office units in the Old Town of Hull and the niche shopping, food and drink outlets created in the Victorian Paragon Arcade.
Danish Buildings and the listed Bayles House, also in the Old Town, are close to completion as small offices and studios targeted at new and growing businesses.
The building benefits rail and bus links from the adjacent transport interchange, while plans include car parking on site and storage space for at least 20 cycles as well as shower and changing facilities.
Charlie said: “It’s another example of our strategy of renovating older buildings which have profile and character and using them to bring new jobs to Hull.
“The site next to the transport interchange fits our agenda of creating a greener business space and positions Monocle as the closest office in Hull to London. We’re in discussions now with some well-known businesses and some fledgling operations and we expect the space to start filling up later this year.”
