New restaurants and major retail investment are set to continue the transformation of a prime city centre site.

Owners of properties on the south side of Paragon Square have unveiled plans for a substantial redevelopment to create a restaurant with the striking feature of a first-floor orangery. The project will be the second piece of a jigsaw that began to take shape during 2011 with the expansion of Stanley’s Brasserie. It will pave the way for the construction of a third high-quality restaurant later this year.

“Paragon Square is a prime site because it is the first view many people have of Hull when they arrive in the city,” said Kathryn Shillito, Hull BID City Centre Manager.

“We’ve worked closely with the property owners, the businesses and Hull City Council to bring about improvements to the area and we’ve targeted it with such work as jet-washing, weeding and maintenance to make it a more attractive area for investors and visitors.

“Because of its history and its importance as the site of the Cenotaph, Hull Civic Society and the Royal British Legion have been consulted and have given their approval. It is wonderful to see the plans taking shape.”

Artist’s impressions of the south side of the square show the proposed restaurant with its orangery.

“It’s very eye-catching and will really help to develop a restaurant culture,” said Kathryn. “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.”

Meanwhile Bronx Menswear in Seaton Buildings on the corner of Paragon Square and Jameson Street has expanded into the adjacent former bank premises. The owners of that property are now looking at potential uses for the former café bar at 95 Jameson Street.

“We understand the owners are in discussions with another operator for the site next door and the result will be three high quality restaurants, each with space for outside dining.”

The work on Seaton Buildings is being managed by Ian Hodges & Co. The first phase involved combining the two former bank premises to create the large unit for the expansion of Bronx Menswear.

“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.