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Joseph Henry Hirst (1863–1945), was a leading architect of the post-Victorian era based in Kingston upon Hull. He was appointed the first City Architect for the city on 1 January 1900, and he retained this position until retirement on 1 July 1926. He was responsible for some of the city's best-known buildings, among them the City Hall, swimming baths, schools, almshouses, fire- and police stations. For full details of his life and the buildings he designed, refer to Wikipedia: Link

The first mention of public toilets in the city appears to be in October 1853 when ‘the making of a number of public urinals was referred to the Committee of Works to carry into effect,’ and by January 1854 ‘two iron urinals similar to those in Glasgow’ had been ordered. Many public conveniences were installed in the city but by 2025 only two were operational, owned and managed by the City Council, viz: Queen Victoria Square and Nelson Street. A further three remain extant but are closed for use, viz: Baker Street, Clarence Street and Market Place.

Paul Gibson, local historian, has produced much detailed information on public toilets in the city: Link and Link

Where outdoor public conveniences were originally the sole means of ‘spending a penny’, today the private retail sector provides indoor toilets for its customers, e.g. at the larger supermarkets, Hull Paragon Interchange, the shopping centres at Prince’s Quay and St Stephen’s, Trinity Market.

Built in the Baroque Revival style by the City Architect, J.H. Hirst, 1903-09, the City Hall plays host to a varied programme of concerts including pop, rock and classical music as well as civic functions such as graduation ceremonies. The ground floor fronting Carr Lane and Paragon Street incorporates retail shops, including the Tourist Information Centre. Grade II* Listed Building Link