Ideal Boilers has become the latest business to support the project which it is hoped will restore the glory of the birthplace of Hull industrialist and film maker, J. Arthur Rank.

Ideal joins local not-for-profit organisation, Probe (Hull) Limited and local businesses including Delaney Marling Partnership, Chartered Surveyors, Ettridge Architecture and PJPS Construction from Beverley in the restoration of 371 Holderness Road, which will see it turned into four apartments, available for rent in the affordable housing sector from April 2015.

Carrie Young, head of marketing at Ideal Boilers, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support the project with the donation of one of our Independent boilers to this important restoration, which will bring benefit to local families. Ideal Boilers was established in Hull in the early 20^th Century and remains a key local business; we are committed to supporting the community wherever we are able.”

The team plans to sympathetically restore the building which had been boarded up for a number of years and subjected to vandalism, making it an eyesore in the local community.

Project manager Simon Delaney from Delaney Marling Partnership said: “There have been numerous problems during the building process. Throughout, Probe has consulted with the Rank Foundation and together with the architect and builder we will ensure the key features are kept to retain its heritage.” 

Steve Alltoft, general manager of Probe (Hull) Limited said: “J. Arthur Rank was granted Freedom of the City in 1935 and spent much of his income on helping the poor. I am very proud to see this legacy continue as his birthplace is returned to the affordable housing market. I am certain this would have made J. Arthur Rank very happy to know his own home is giving back to the local community.”