Square route to the most stylish venues

18/01/2012

FINE dining and high fashion are set to revitalise a gateway site in Hull city centre.

Paragon Square, which has already benefited from the expansion of Stanley’s Brasserie, promises to deliver an exciting mix of fine dining and high fashion as owners and investors embark on a programme of rebuilding and refurbishment.

Artist’s impressions of the south side of the square show a stylish bar and restaurant with a first-floor orangery, and Garness Jones Managing Director Dave Garness revealed that’s only part of the story.

“The opening of Stan’s Bar as an extension to Stanley’s Brasserie changed the face of that part of the city and the new venture will also be high calibre,” said Dave.

“It will be up to the operators how they use the orangery – they may want a private dining area, an outdoor terrace or something else but whatever they do will help to develop a restaurant culture.

“The owners are in discussions with another operator for the site next door and the result will be three high quality restaurants, each with about 40 covers for outside dining in addition to their indoor capacity.”

Work has already started on an extensive remodelling of Seaton Buildings, which the owners intend will help to revitalise the Paragon Square and Jameson Street area in conjunction with the proposed dining quarter.

The first phase of remodelling involved combining the two former bank premises to create one large retail unit and, after an extensive fitting-out process, Bronx Menswear has now opened its impressive new store. 

The next phase will involve 95 Jameson Street, a former cafe bar which is seen as a prime location for restaurant use. 

“A restaurant located in 95 Jameson Street would complement the proposed plans at Paragon Square and enhance the dining offer for this area of the city,” said a spokesman for Ian Hodges & Co, who are managing the property.

“Equally, the proximity to House of Fraser and St Stephen’s makes this an ideal location for a high value retail store as it helps to create a cluster of quality retail outlets. It is hoped that Bronx, along with other recent store openings will help to revitalise Jameson Street as a retail area and attract new stores to Hull city centre.”

Dave Garness added: “The Paragon Square and Jameson Street area is well located to capitalise on Hull’s retail and early evening entertainment market due to the high levels of footfall in the area, the proximity to the cinema and theatres, the hotels, and also the availability of secure 24 hour parking at St Stephen’s.

“The investment that has been made and will be made into this prominent building is significant. It is the long term aim of the owner to make considerable improvements and to bring the upper floors into occupation, possibly as an apart-hotel.”