Intercity train operator TransPennine Express (TPE) is to deliver an investment of £1.4million in Hull Paragon, transforming the experience customers have of the station through new waiting facilities and toilets, an enhanced booking
office, new customer information boards and additional retail outlets.
The project will also create around 20 permanent new jobs in the city.
These works will be completed in advance of the start of Hull UK City
of Culture on 01 January 2017, providing visitors to the city with a
positive first and lasting impression of the city, through an enhanced
range of services and facilities that customers expect to find at
stations in cities across the country.
TPE has worked closely with Hull City Council to develop the
proposals and last week submitted an application for Listed Building
Consent seeking the approvals required to commence the programme of
works. If approved, the investment work will commence early this summer
with all works completed by the end of November 2016.
The new waiting facilities will provide customers with a modern and
comfortable waiting environment, while the booking office will become
much more open and accessible. The new arrivals and departures board
will radically improve the level of customer information provided.
The additional enhanced retail units will provide an opportunity to
attract new facilities and brands into the station and Hull. The
company has already begun asking retailers to come forward with
expressions of interest to use these new units.
David Hatfield, TPE Station Manager for North Humber & North
Yorkshire: “In 2017 Hull will welcome the world for a yearlong
celebration of culture and we have to ensure the station is ready to
welcome the many visitors who will make journeys to Hull to experience
different events over the course of next year.
“This investment will transform Hull station with an enhanced station
environment, comfortable waiting facilities and a proper arrivals and
departures board replacing the existing television monitors. By
completing the work this year we will provide customers with a positive
first and last impression of Hull, ensuring TransPennine Express does
its part in helping to secure the legacy to Hull from the City of
Culture events.”