A MAKEOVER transforming one of Hull’s most historic sites is set to be completed by September.
The facelift scheme has seen the former Trinity House School being demolished to make way for a new short-stay car park, which will double as an events space.
The project is one of the most ambitious in the recent history of the ancient Trinity House charity, which is based in Hull’s Old Town.
Captain Phil Watts, a member of the Trinity House Brethren, said construction work in the former school courtyard was on schedule to be finished by early September.
“We did get approached by the Freedom Festival people who were interested in using the space for this year’s festival, but reluctantly we had to say no because we couldn’t guarantee it would be ready in time,” he said.
“Having said that, we hope the courtyard will be used for things like markets, concerts and other events on a regular basis.
“It’s going to be somewhere quite unique in Hull, and I am certain it will be heavily used for events during the City of Culture 2017.”
Covering 25,000sq ft, the remodelled courtyard is flanked on all sides by listed historic buildings, which form part of the Trinity House estate.
They include the Trinity House chapel dating from 1839, the Victoria and Albert Chambers offices and the famous entrance archway off Princes Dock Street.
A new entrance and exit route for vehicles is being created via Posterngate, complete with a new archway of wrought iron.
Capt Watts said: “The new archway ironwork will spell out the new name for the space – Zebedee’s Yard, which is named after Zebedee Scaping, who was the longest-serving headmaster at the school. He was headmaster for from 1854 to 1909.”
The 65-space car park will be available for shoppers and visitors to the city centre, providing a valuable stream of income for the charity.
Two new pedestrian routes are also being created to link the courtyard with Whitefriargate.
One is being named after the old Cock and Lion pub, which once stood on the site.
North Ferriby-based building firm C R Reynolds is carrying out the facelift work.
Site manager Ross Benson said: “It’s a bit different to be working in such prestigious surroundings but it’s also quite nice. We have had a good start on site and hopefully people will be impressed when it’s all finished.”
19th century building
THE facelift scheme at Trinity House was triggered by the decision to relocate the historic school to new premises in George Street.
Originally built in the mid-19th century, the old school was declared surplus to requirements.
It was demolished earlier this year, opening up views of a number of Georgian era properties for the first time in 150 years.
The upper floors of the of the properties, Friary Chambers, is being converted into apartments.
• Looking for a new job? Visit our Jobs section to see all the latest vacancies