A COMMUNITY group has revealed ambitious plans to transform a historic building on Victoria Dock.

The 140-year-old Winding House could become a cafe and exhibition space within four years.

Members of charity the Winding House Ltd also plan to allow the building to be used for services by Victoria Dock Church.

The group was granted planning permission to transform the building in South Bridge Road this week after an eight-year battle.

Chairman Graham Wragg said: "After eight years, we are feeling a mixture of relief, euphoria and panic. The hard work starts now.

"The Winding House is the only iconic building that is left on the dock. It is a brand new village and this building is the only evidence that it used to be a working dock."

The group has now received the keys to the building and signed a 25-year lease from Hull City Council.

The group now needs to raise £250,000 for alterations to the building, including new windows and a roof.

The Reverend Jason Taylor, vicar of Victoria Dock Church, said: "From a heritage and cultural point of view, it is really great that we have not lost this building. It's not a listed building and there was somebody who wanted to turn it into flats, so it is good to keep such an iconic building.

"When it is open, not only will it be somewhere for the church, but it will be a resource for the whole community."

Mr Wragg said alterations need to be made before the building can be opened to the public.

He said: "Before it can become a cafe and a meeting room, we need to make an entrance to the building, which has been bricked up for years and clear it inside.

"Then we can start getting estimates and applying for grants for a new roof.

"The initial cost will be about £250,000, so we would be grateful to hear from anyone who would be able to help us."

Anyone who can help fund the restoration is asked to email Mr Wragg on graham679@hotmail.co.uk.