Circus Circus has been closed for around 20 years but it could be flattened to pave the way for exciting city changes
It is now around 20 years since Circus Circus closed its doors in Hull(Image: staff photo)
A former Hull nightclub could be razed to the ground to make way for a six-storey development with swish apartments. Circus Circus called time two decades ago and has lain empty ever since, falling victim to vandalism and a number of fires over the years.
Now, however, developers DBG Group – which is also driving forward the conversion of the former Debenhams department store in the city centre – has applied for permission to demolish the Spencer Street nightclub and construct a huge building which could play a vital role in the continuing regeneration of the Ferensway area. The proposal is for the demolition of the derelict nightclub and redevelopment of the site to create a six-storey mixed use development with 164 new homes.
New accommodation would include five studio apartments, 138 one bedroom apartments, 16 two bedroom apartments, five three-bedroom apartments, four commercial units, a communal lounge and a roof terrace overlooking the city. As well as breathing new life into an eyesore site and empty patch of land, HMS Town Planning and Design, which has been enlisted by DBG Group to seek outline permission, says a number of jobs will be created during the construction phase.
The site proposed for the multimillion-pound scheme, which includes an adjoining plot of vacant land, had been earmarked for development some years ago. Planning approval was granted in 2010 for its demolition and the erection of a seven-storey block called Trinity Tower, but the plans never came to fruition and the building has stood empty since its closure.
Designers have taken inspiration from the surrounding urban environment and recent residential conversions nearby to create “an active frontage along Ferensway, enhancing the pedestrian experience and contributing positively to the public realm”, and new trees could also be planted along the northern periphery. Alongside plans for a roof terrace, a path running through its centre will connect both sides of the building.
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The planning documents say: “This shared green space offers residents a place to relax, socialise, and enjoy an attractive outdoor environment without leaving the building.”
The report continues: “The application is part of the DBG Group portfolio of regeneration developments in Hull to redevelop the site to create a mixed use development consisting of commercial zones on the ground floor and residential apartments. The proposed development would complement the well-established building in the city centre provides an opportunity to regenerate the site on this prominent location.
“The proposal seeks to breathe new life into the dated building by delivering a high-quality mixed use development in a city centre location. The proposed use represents a sustainable form of development having regard to the aims of both local and national planning policies.
“The proposed changes enhances the local economic uses by introducing city living, whilst ensuring that the setting, character and integrity of both the host and adjacent buildings are not impacted in a detrimental manner, making a positive contribution to the city centre including it’s economic vitality as well as to the local character and distinctiveness.”
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