Hull City Council is delighted to announce the appointment of a primary contractor to deliver the biggest transformation the city centre has seen in over 70 years.

Multi-national company Eurovia will lead the way with over 30-years experience in working for local authorities. They have been appointed to complete the full public realm programme with renovations to Jameson St, Queen Victoria Square, Whitefriagate (including Beverley Gate when plans are finalised) and Trinity Square.

Alongside the Rotherham-based office of Eurovia, it is hoped that Hull-based civil engineering companies will work as sub contractors to undertake a significant amount of the work.

During the tender process there was a strong emphasis placed on the benefits to the local economy and employment of local labour in particular. Eurovia will be required to report on a monthly basis the number of employees working on the construction project that live in Hull. This will include the number of project initiated apprenticeships, progression into employment for the unemployed, work experience opportunities, qualifications and training programmes.

Portfolio Holder for City Economy and Physical Infrastructure, Councillor Martin Mancey, said: "I am pleased that Eurovia have indicated that they intend to use local subcontractors to undertake a significant proportion of the works, thereby providing local employment for local people.

"This programme is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the city's streets and we are pleased to have an experienced main contractor with the expertise and resource to deliver our ambitious plans."

Portfolio Holder for Visitor Destination, Councillor Steven Bayes, said: "The timely commencement of the programme is essential to be ready for 2017, the process has been robust and the recommended option gives overall best value for the council and the people of Hull."

Kevin Graham, Divisional Director of Eurovia Contracting said: "We are delighted to have been chosen as the leading contractor for such a prestigious scheme."

The project also includes the commissioning of four acclaimed artists who have been tasked with bringing the project and works to life with word, light and sculpture. Local poet Shane Rhodes, British artist Michael Pinsky, lighting specialist Nayan Kulkarni, and award-winning architects Tonkin Liu will work with Eurovia to create public art commissions that weave seamlessly into the improvement work.

The final programme of works is currently being finalised and consultation with businesses and city centre residents is currently taking place.

The transformation will begin on Monday 28 September and is scheduled for completion in November 2016.