Boost for night-time economy

Council leaders have hatched a plan to encourage more restaurants, café-bars and creative industries in the city centre.
They have re-launched a company called Hull Investments Ltd (HIL) which will offer grants, loans and equity investments to such business ventures.
It's hoped the plan will create more jobs while at the same time help to kick-start the night-time economy in the city centre.
"Most vibrant cities have this flourishing sector of the economy and we want this developed more in Hull," says Cllr Andy Sloan, who is responsible for the city's regeneration and economy.
"There have been concerns about the future of Whitefriargate, particularly in view of St. Stephen's – and it was therefore important for us to kickstart the development of these type of businesses, and to strengthen the key route from Whitefriargate to the Old Town and the proposed east bank developments and The Deep."
HIL's other main focus will be encouraging new businesses in research and development-driven projects in the healthcare, renewable energy and logistics sectors.
A fund of £250,000 will be available to each sector, with individual businesses being able to apply for grants of up to £10,000, loans of up to £15,000, and equity participation and support.
For more information about HIL contact 300300.