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The number of empty shops in Hull city centre

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The number of empty shops in Hull city centre

There are currently at least 34 empty shops in Hull, a tally has shown following the unveiling of new powers which aim to fill them.

Hull Live went to the streets in Hull city centre best known for shopping, including Whitefriargate, King Edward Street and Jameson Street to see how many vacant units were in each. Meanwhile, a Whitefriargate trader gave his views on why some city centre stores are struggling.




It comes after the Government unveiled plans for councils to be given rent auction powers to take over empty shops and lease them out to small businesses and community groups. Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young said the powers would help bring high streets back to life and create jobs and opportunities for local people.

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A total of four empty shops were counted in Prospect Street, including a space once occupied by one of the country’s best-known high street names. The former Debenhams between Prospect Street and Ferensway has stood empty since 2021 after the company folded amid the coronavirus pandemic.

King Edward Street had seven empty units, including three in a row next to each other. There were five vacant shops in Jameson Street, including the ground floor of the Hammonds of Hull building which has stood empty since the food hall left in March 2023.

The former Debenhams in Prospect Street has stood empty since 2021(Image: LDRS)

A planning application has been lodged by Lane 7 Ltd to turn it into a bowling alley and games bar and it is awaiting a decision. Carr Lane had four empty shops and Whitefriargate had seven.

A total of four empty retail units were in Paragon Street and one was in the Paragon Arcade which is home to a number of independent businesses. The one empty unit in Lowgate is the ground floor of King William House, currently on the market with Garness Jones.

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