Whitefriargate rooftop bar to be created thanks to Levelling Up Funding

Visitors to Hull city centre will soon be able to enjoy a new rooftop bar thanks to Levelling Up Funding.

Added Value Portal Limited has been awarded £75,000 from the government-funded scheme towards creating the facility at 55 Whitefriargate.

The project will include a multi-functional bar, food and leisure area on top of an extension at the back of the original building, creating six full-time equivalent jobs and adding to the area's evening economy.

Once completed, it will accommodate up to 60 customers and will be accessed by a new staircase and chairlift.

Cllr Paul Drake-Davis, Hull City Council's portfolio holder for regeneration, said: "This project complements what is already a vibrant place for people to work and socialise.

"This new rooftop bar will enhance the appeal of the city centre as a destination to help drive footfall and boost the hospitality and evening economies."

55 Whitefriargate, on the corner of Parliament Street, has undergone significant regeneration in recent years.

Built in 1879, the former bank is now home to Bar55, situated in the old bank vaults.

Gerard Toplass, The 55 Group chief executive, said: "Whitefriargate was the heart of the city for so long and it's fantastic to be part of the regeneration that will bring life back into this fantastic part of Hull.

"We have built our business in Whitefriargate and we are looking forward to continuing our investment with help from the Levelling Up Fund.

"We are excited about building an urban landscape and rooftop experience to rival what is available in cities like Manchester and London."

In 2021, Hull City Council was awarded £19.5million from the Government's Levelling Up Fund to support infrastructure and deliver a package of city centre regeneration works.

£7.5million of this being used for the Levelling Up Fund grant scheme, which aims to bring unused floorspace of any vacant or partially occupied property back into use and creating new jobs.

Similar to previous grant schemes in the Old Town, the Levelling Up Grant scheme will allow various diverse businesses to open and operate, breathing new life into the area.