Work to revamp former Debenhams store under way

2 hours ago

Charis Scott-HolmEast Yorkshire and Lincolnshire

News image — Artist impression of how a landscaped atrium at the new apartment complex could look

DBG Group An artist impression of an atrium, featuring white rendered walls, glass balconies, and raised beds with grass and trees. People walk around this outdoor space. — Artist impression of how a landscaped atrium at the new apartment complex could look

Newly released images show how a former city centre department store could look once converted into 178 apartments.

Work to clear and convert the former Debenhams store on Hull's Prospect Street is now under way following a new lease agreement, which will include commercial space on the ground floor of the building.

Planning permission was granted for the project in December, and the work is being undertaken by DBG Group.

Tom Danby, managing director, said the work on the building, which has been vacant since 2021, "marks an important step" in the regeneration of the city centre.

An image of a dimly lit empty department store, with boxes and furniture strewn around the space. — The now derelict interior of the department store in December 2025

He added: "We anticipate our total investment in Hull will be more than £75m and it was a pleasure to work with council officers, whose support has been crucial in bringing the deal over the line."

The company has already converted the former Dunedin House and Shirethorn House buildings into flats within the city centre.

Hull City Council said the Debenhams redevelopment would help it achieve its goal of providing 2,500 new city centre homes over the next 20 years.

Chris Jackson, of the council, said the project was a "great example" of the public and private sectors working together.

He added: "This investment from DBG Group also shows confidence the private sector has in Hull and will help to boost our city centre residential offer and economy."