The new £3m Emmaus Hull community has its hat on after VIPs laid the final roof tile today (July 22, 2015).

The homeless charity, in partnership with Chevin Housing Association (a member of the Together Group), welcomed Lord Mayor of Kingston upon Hull Councillor Anita Harrison and her Consort Councillor Peter Lord to place the final tile on the roof of The Orchard building in Lockwood Street, which is being developed by Hobson & Porter.

The development is being funded by Chevin Housing Association and other organisations including the Homes and Communities Agency, Hull City Council, Garfield Weston Foundation, ARCO, Emmaus UK and many local organisations and individuals.

Hobson & Porter has been developing a brownfield industrial site on Lockwood Street, which was kindly gifted by Hull City Council, to provide accommodation and work for approximately 30 formerly homeless people, in the Hull and East Riding area.

Kevin Ruth, Together Housing Group Deputy Chief Executive, said: “The Together Housing Group is far more than just bricks and mortar, we help to build communities. The Emmaus movement does great work in helping the most vulnerable people in our communities and it’s something we’re delighted to support. “The new centre will provide a fantastic service to the people of Hull and we’re delighted to be able to play our part.”

Graham Beal, Managing Director – Hobson & Porter, said “Hobson & Porter are proud to be involved in such a rewarding project. We strive to make a positive difference in the communities in which we work and projects like ‘The Orchard’ for Emmaus brings real benefits to the local area. It’s not just about buildings it’s about providing opportunities for social integration.”

Patrick Doyle, Chair of Emmaus Hull, said: “Putting the roof on our home is an important step towards providing shelter and work for those who are experiencing homelessness in our community. He went on to say “We would like to thank all our partners, donors, volunteers and supporters who have made this momentous step possible and appeal for more people to help us by hosting an event, like a coffee morning, sponsoring a room or donating goods, so if you can help please contact Helen McGill, Project Director 07870642730”.

The scheme expects to open its doors this autumn.

Construction firm Hobson & Porter has appointed three new directors to its board as it looks to continue its rapid growth.

Following one of the company’s most successful months – Hobson & Porter secured £18m worth of work in May, it has welcomed Jon Craven as Minor Works Director, Richard Hunter as Commercial Director and Mike Gibbin as Financial Director.

Mr Craven and Mr Hunter have been appointed to the board having held previous positions within the company; eight months and two years respectively. Mr Gibbin will join Hobson & Porter in July.

Graham Beal, managing director at Hobson & Porter, said: “I am delighted that Jon, Richard and Mike will be taking on director roles within the business. Our continued growth and very positive performance of late has allowed us to strengthen the board as we look to maintain that momentum. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all three of them on their appointments.”