Business booming at Victorian shopping arcade

Steph Ellis, tenant liaison for Allenby Commercial, said the arcade had "something for everyone"

A landmark Victorian shopping arcade in Hull has reached 100% occupancy following the arrival of four new independent businesses.

The Paragon Arcade, which was built in 1891 by Sir Alfred Gelder, was acquired by family-owned developer Allenby Commercial in 2017.

The new arrivals, taking the number of occupied units to 16, include a Sicilian restaurant and a cake shop.

So, what is the secret of its success in an ever-changing retail landscape?

Steph Ellis, the tenant liaison, said: "We're absolutely delighted to see Paragon Arcade full once again. It creates a sense of community when every unit is occupied, and the new businesses bring something fresh and exciting.

"Our tenants put their heart and soul into their businesses, and that energy really shows," Ms Ellis said.

"Everyone knows Paragon Arcade – it's iconic, and such an important part of Hull."

Gary Matfin, who moved into the arcade in 2020, described it as a "special place"

Gary Matfin, 60, co-owner of Out of the Attic Music, echoed the sentiments.

Mr Matfin said: "People will come and look for a record here, and then go and have something to eat - so we are all feeding off each other.

"We've always done quite well, and I think it just goes down to the vibe of being a special place."

Meanwhile, Ben Beal, 26, from Segal's Jewellers, said the arcade "feels like home".

Events, including music nights and wreath making, also helped to attract customers, he said.

"Because they are doing so much I think it's good," he added.

One of the new arrivals is Swine & Soul - a restaurant led by Michael Barnett.

"It's a really good site – the footfall down here is phenomenal, and the building is full of character. It's just a really cool place to come," he said.

Ellie, from Mae Hair Room, by Ellie, said her clients "love it here", with some travelling from as far away as Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield.

"Paragon Arcade has such a special feel to it. You can come for a day out here with everything that's going on – great food, great shops and a really welcoming community," she said.

Danielle Harris said there was a feeling of community

Shoppers also praised the arcade and the offer it brings to the city centre.

Danielle Harris, 30, says the arcade quite often has extra things going on, such as a late night bar.

"It's just quite nice because It feels like there is a bit of a community hub here," she added.

"It takes you back to childhood," Linda Smith said.

"We've been coming here since we were little."

"The businesses have changed so much over the years - but it's just nice to see it evolving," she added.

Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.

Download the BBC News app from the App Store for iPhone and iPad or Google Play for Android devices