Fruit Market sees Hull’s first ‘urban village’ come to life
FAMILIES SETTLE IN AND FORM CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY
NEWCOMERS to Hull have revealed the reasons behind their move to one of the city’s up-and-coming areas.
Incredibly, one couple have switched Melbourne, Australia for the Fruit Market, one of a number of examples of people relocating to Hull’s first urban village.
The £20m development is expected to be finished by the end of the year, but some homeowners are already settling in to their new lives.
Once complete, around 300 people are likely to be able to call it home.
While a move from the other side of the world stands out, another family switched Scarborough for the Fruit Market, while first-time buyers are also taking up property.
Residents say they enjoy having everything they need on their doorstep, including independent shops, galleries, cafés, restaurants and bars. Even during lockdown they can enjoy a scenic stroll around the nearby Hull Marina and waterfront.
Professor Trevor Burnard, director of the Wilberforce Institute, and his wife Deborah Morgan, a librarian, moved into their two storey home with a loft room in Horner’s Square, one of four developments, in November 2020.
The couple, both 60, relocated from Melbourne, Australia, and chose to make the area their home.
Deborah said: “We love the atmosphere and vibrancy of the Fruit Market with the bars, restaurants, shops and galleries close by.
“The demographic is diverse and we’ve met a wide range of people, from young professionals to retired couples, living here.
“Once restrictions are eased, the lifestyle the Fruit Market offers is exactly what we signed up for. We love going for walks around the marina and I can imagine how dynamic and fun it will be in the summer when hopefully everything can reopen. I know we won’t be disappointed.”
First-time buyer Sophie Lee, 25, a consultant in public sector development, moved into her two-bedroom townhouse in Scott’s Square in July 2019.
She said: “There’s a real sense of community. My neighbours have become my friends and we all get on really well.
“We socialise together on Humber Street and everyone looks out for one another.
The development is a key part of the £80m redevelopment of the area which included the overhaul of Humber Street.
Sue Waudby, Beal sales and marketing director, said: “We’re delighted that people who have chosen to make their homes in the Fruit Market have had such a positive experience and formed such a close-knit community.
“The release of Finkle Quarter offers the final opportunities to become part of Hull’s place to be.”