First brasserie leads the way towards city square’s revival

AN outside seating area has given a new look to a once-blighted square in Hull.

Tables and chairs have been set out near the Cenotaph on Paragon Square so people can enjoy a drink and meal.

Eventually it is hoped the new area – formed by the removal of concrete benches – will be shared by other food businesses.

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The development is part of Stan’s Bar, a new wine bar connected through an archway to Stanley’s Brasserie, run by James Stockdale and business partner Paula Howarth.

Paula’s sister Sally works for the business too.

The pair opened the brasserie in the summer of 2008 in an empty tanning salon.

The Royal British Legion gave their backing to the development. Some public seating remains in the square.

Miss Howarth said they had suffered in previous summers from not having outside seating, to the point of praying for rain.

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She said: “It looks really nice. Before with all the benches people used to hang around.

“We don’t get much trouble now. I think with us being here it has really helped improve the area. Hopefully there will be more businesses coming in – obviously it is going to be great for them as the area is huge.”

People can sit out till 7pm, Wednesdays to Saturdays and until 5pm, Sunday to Tuesday.