Wendy
2/24/2025 3:46:00 PM
4 mins read
The head of HullBID praised member businesses for building partnerships based on resilience and renewal in the face of continuing challenges.
Kathryn Shillito, HullBID Executive Director, told guests at the organisation’s annual awards night that the combination of adaptability and unity will enable their businesses to emerge stronger and maximise the opportunities to come during a year of positive change.
Kathryn highlighted the setting up of a combined authority for Hull and East Yorkshire as a significant development which HullBID is determined to exploit. She added that the £65m Hull Maritime project is already bringing benefits as people make plans to enjoy the region’s biggest event since the UK City of Culture celebrations of 2017.
Kathryn also warned of the need for caution arising from the impact of rising costs and changes in consumer preferences. She noted concerns around delays in completing the Castle Street roadworks and over continuing outbreaks of retail crime and antisocial behaviour, but she told how HullBID is leading the fight for improvements.
Kathryn said: “As regards the delays with Castle Street, HullBID has been at the negotiating table with National Highways from the outset, making sure businesses are prepared for any disruption. Now our challenge for specific compensation is being listened to and we await a response.
“The strength of our relationship with Humberside Police is such that we were invited to take part in the selection process for the new Chief Constable, enabling us to put forward our concerns to the people at the very top.
“The election of a regional mayor will bring new opportunities for business and new investment. We look forward to working with the successful candidate but, as we do with all our partners, we will challenge the new mayor to make sure they understand the importance of a thriving city centre to the regional economy, the value of collaboration at every level and the ongoing need for innovation – and of course funding!”
Kathryn welcomed the Hull Maritime initiative as a vital cultural contribution which will be further enhanced by the city’s bid to become a UNESCO City of Music.
She said: “We are acutely aware that a strong cultural programme plays a crucial part in driving regeneration. It helps build a unique local identity, attracts visitors to boost the economy, creates vibrancy and serves as a catalyst for further investment.”
Kathryn said local independent businesses are responding positively, and she vowed that HullBID will support them every step of the way.
She said: “Independent developers continue to back Hull city centre and its future. The confidence of people who really get the ambitions of the city is clear as they are investing their own cash.
“As our members adapt and endure the challenges HullBID has to step up too and provide even greater value. We’re not just a helping hand with security and cleaning issues. We give guidance and support to new businesses. We compile data and write reports to attract investment.
“We are a conduit pulling together responses from our community on issues that matter, and we make our mark by shouting loudly and championing the voices of city businesses about local issues.”
HullBID Awards Roll of Honour
Innovation Award sponsored by AaGlobal Language Services
Winner: Hull College AI Academy
Shortlisted: Little Astronauts and Hull Schools Library Services
The Best Place to Work Award sponsored by St Stephen’s
Winner: DoubleTree by Hilton Hull
Shortlisted: Toytown and Hull Truck Theatre
Longevity Award sponsored by Allenby Commercial
Winner: F R Scott Limited
Shortlisted: Thieving Harry’s and Kingston Theatre Hotel
Contribution to the Community Award sponsored by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside
Winner: City of Hull Street Angels
Shortlisted: Lush and Good Things Market
The Best in Food and Drink Award sponsored by Hull Trains
Winner: Thieving Harry’s
Shortlisted: Patisserie House and Everything Toastie
Stylish or Welcoming Premises Award sponsored by Hull City Council
Winner: Nanouk
Shortlisted: Cherry’s Bar and Lili + Mila’s Empawrium
Customer Service Excellence Award sponsored by FigFlex
Winner: Reach Recruitment
Shortlisted: Artisan Flowers and DoubleTree by Hilton Hull
Commitment to Health and Wellbeing Award sponsored by Segal’s Jewellers
Winner: CatZero
Shortlisted: Hull Minster Welcome Café and Fit24
Outstanding Employee or Team Award sponsored by Grosvenor Casino
Winner: Tina Swann, C4DI
Shortlisted: Civic 1 and St Stephen’s Security
Outstanding Contribution Award sponsored by KFM Recruitment
Winner: The Deep
Shortlisted: Ferens Art Gallery and Hull Truck Theatre
Judges’ Special Recognition Award
Winner: Civic 1 and Humberside Police
