Hull Spring Bank: Plan to regenerate 'neglected' road

Spring Bank is lined with large Georgian and Victorian buildings

A public consultation is under way into plans to regenerate a "neglected" main road in Hull.

Spring Bank could see new public spaces, restored traditional-style shop fronts and outdoor seating for cafes.

A council report said the road "is of historical importance", but has declined due to increased traffic, a lack of building maintenance and the conversion of houses into flats.

The consultation on a masterplan for the area is to run until 7 April.

The authority will be hosting a drop-in session at the Hull Deaf Centre at Ferens Hall on Spring Bank between 15:00 GMT and 19:00 on 7 March.

Hull City Council's report said the street had suffered from years of neglect, but has the potential to become a "primary centre" for the surrounding area.

The report added residents have complained about crime, a lack of bins, graffiti, antisocial behaviour and pavements being obstructed by goods displayed outside shops, but also pointed to strengths including diversity, a sense of community and beautiful old buildings.

Spring Bank is one of the main commuting routes from the city centre to west Hull and is lined with large Georgian and Victorian buildings.

The masterplan will now go out to public consultation

Under the plans, businesses on the north side of the road could set up outdoor drinking and dining spaces, while new benches, bins and planters could be added.

Shopfronts could be restored to resemble historic examples, with old photographs used for reference.

Building owners would be encouraged to maintain them properly through incentives and planning enforcement.

Disused land could be redeveloped into public spaces.

If the masterplan receives final approval, work on some aspects could begin within two years, although it could take 15-20 years to complete, the council said.