£16m Arco HQ development to create 200 jobs in Hull’s Fruit Market

Construction has begun on a £16m new-build office development for a longstanding local firm in the heart of Hull’s Fruit Market district.

A new 58,500 sq ft five-floor building will serve as the head office for national safety business Arco, which opened its first shop in nearby Queen Street back in 1893.

As well as office space, the construction project will also include a 350-space multi-storey car park for Arco employees.

As well as cementing Arco’s future in Hull, the development will create around 200 jobs during the construction phase.

David Evison, managing director of Arco, said: “This is a significant step forward for Arco, as we continue to invest in the growth of the business. The new head office will provide us with the facilities and the work environment to meet our needs into the future.

“We’re particularly pleased that our new head office will support the regeneration of Hull’s Fruit Market, to ensure the city remains vibrant and commercially successful.”

Hessle-based PDR Construction has been named as the principal contractor for the project, which is due to be completed by the end of 2020.

The development marks a milestone for the Fruit Market urban regeneration project led by Wykeland Beal, the regeneration company formed by commercial developer Wykeland Group and housebuilder Beal Homes, as part of the Fruit Market LLP joint venture with Hull City Council.

Dominic Gibbons, managing director of Wykeland Group, commented: “This development is enormously significant for Hull and the wider region.

“There hasn’t been a new office building of this size in Hull for a single user for more than 50 years and the development will see a showpiece facility of exceptional quality and prestige occupying a key, strategic site.

“We’re delighted one of the city’s most successful and respected businesses has chosen the Fruit Market for the next chapter in its rich history.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →