Hull City Council has defended its decision to grant £200,000 to the franchise responsible for opening a Wendy’s burger outlet in the city centre.
The new branch of the US fast-food chain commenced operations earlier this month with financial support from the government’s Levelling Up Fund, administered by the council.
Over 2,100 people have signed a petition questioning the decision, urging emergency aid for Hull’s existing independent businesses.
Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, emphasized the positive impact of local Levelling Up funds, noting that 92% had benefited small and medium-sized enterprises. In an interview with BBC Look North, Mr. Ross highlighted the fund’s role in creating nearly 1,000 jobs, attracting £25 million in private sector investment, and revitalizing numerous vacant properties.
Regarding criticism that funds allocated to Wendy’s could have supported struggling local businesses, Mr. Ross clarified that the grant aimed to foster new business ventures in the city centre.
He encouraged existing businesses to explore available council support, acknowledging concerns raised by independent businesses, whose petition argued for prioritizing local enterprises over international chains.
Nick Cobley, owner of Dive Bar in Princes Avenue and initiator of the petition, lamented that the grant to Wendy’s could potentially have rescued 20 local businesses facing closure.
Responding to criticisms that Hull’s uniqueness lies in its independent traders, Mr. Ross assured that the council valued both local enterprises and larger investments that contribute to city centre vitality.
Square Burgers Ltd, the franchise behind Wendy’s in Hull, is based in Nottingham and also operates Papa’s Fish & Chips establishments. Councillor Paul Drake-Davis, the council’s portfolio holder for regeneration, stressed that Levelling Up funding aims to occupy vacant city centre units and create employment opportunities.
He highlighted Wendy’s significant investment in Hull and underscored the grant’s role in supporting economic growth.
The council remains committed to leveraging funding to stimulate economic activity while supporting the diversity of Hull’s business landscape.