Hull Business Speaks Out About the Real Effect of City of Culture Works

As 2017 approaches the city of Hull is undergoing billions of pounds of regeneration in preparation. This includes work in Trinity Square, behind Holy Trinity Church.

Although business owners are pleased with the new work being carried out as the promised end result will hopefully benefit them, the way in which Hull City Council and Construction Company; Eurovia is carrying out the work is affecting the trade in a way which the businesses could never have prepared.

Neil Egan part owner of Simple's Cafe in the square has been speaking out about how difficult it has been for his business to adapt. Neil spoke to Viking FM and he told us that the work was originally meant to be done in stages which meant the businesses could adapt and still encourage customers. However the whole square has started renovations, meaning that businesses are believed to be losing passing trade.

Neil explained to Viking that it's losing him around £800 a week, although he can understand how it's easier for Eurovia to complete the work in one larger stage ...

'We knew we were going to be affected. And totally understandable. Can't make an omelette without cracking a few eggs. However, they have gone contrary to what they've told us. They have ripped up the complete square instead of doing it in small stages.'

'I'd encourage other businesses that are going to be effected by the works to clarify with Eurovia and the council and get something formal that this is what they are doing it, and they are doing it in this fashion. Because they told us they were doing it one way, and they have done it completely another. And it's killed us.'

'Just basically we rely on through traffic. People walking past popping in for a coffee, popping in for a sandwich. Or people who just want to wonder around this beautiful area. Our thoroughfare has been cut off. The nearest way you can walk past is 35 meters way, where you can't even see if we're open.'

'I think it’s too late for us. I think they need to be aware that if they say they are going to do it one way, that they do it that way, because they may not realise the consequences of their actions - and they didn't take us into consideration at all.'

Hull City Council have put up signs noting that local businesses are still open, and have put up ones directing customers to Simples Cafe. Viking FM approached them asking them about the change in City of Culture work plans ...

'Hull is embarking on its biggest transformation for many years and, with tight timescales to adhere to, some disruption is to be expected.

We are working hard to support businesses through these periods, with Hull BID and with dedicated Public Liaison Officers employed by Eurovia, acting as a point of contact for all retailers and businesses affected by the work. We are also installing additional signage in areas to signal that areas are ‘businesses are open as usual’.

Whilst advance notice of works starting was provided, unfortunately on this occasion there was a breakdown in communication which led to insufficient notice of the intention to work directly outside of the property at the same time as works removing a significant portion of Trinity Square.

Eurovia have assured the council that they have now put processes in place to ensure that they will maintain regular contact and dialogue with the local shop owners and businesses, making them aware of any changes to the programme of works, as soon as possible.

We have worked with Simples Café to create an outdoor seating area that can still be used. Works to provide a larger outdoor seating area are now being prioritised.

The council is determined to create a thriving city centre that residents and businesses can be proud of and we appreciate the patience of everyone throughout this time.'

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