IT’S meant to be Southampton’s new hub for all things creative and cultural.

But the people behind the new Arts Complex in the city have now named it – after its street number.

The development overlooking both Guildhall Square and East Park has been named Studio 144, as it is at 144 Above Bar Street.

Studio 144, which is on the site of the former Tyrell & Green department store, is the new home for the Nuffield Theatre, the University of Southampton’s John Hansard Gallery and City Eye, an organisation supporting the city’s filmmakers.

But people working in the city’s arts industries have complained that the name, which covers both buildings, is not creative or inspiring.

Dr Hossein Hadisi, director of Southampton Arts Academy in Carlton Crescent said: “I think it could have been a bit more creative.

“I think the name Studio suggests it’s a much smaller place. The building could have been given a grander name.

“It may be a bit late, but maybe something like Guildhall Arts, or something a bit more do do with Southampton.”

Already opened on the site are a number of bars and restaurants.

The name was revealed as the new Guildhall Place – which dissects Studio 144 – was officially opened.

Councillor Simon Letts, leader of Southampton City Council, said: “Opening this link is a significant milestone in the transformation of the Cultural Quarter.

“It connects the east and west side of the city and provides a direct route from the Civic Centre, across the park to Southampton Solent University. It also frames a fantastic view to the Clock Tower above the Civic Centre.

“We’re working on improving the connection into the park and will have this fully complete later this year.”

Simon Armstrong, project director at Grosvenor Britain and Ireland, added: “The streets around the Arts Complex will stitch the new building into the existing streetscape and the Cultural Quarter.

“We’re looking forward to seeing some of the restaurant operators spill out with tables and chairs into Guildhall Place and to seeing a range of activities taking place in the new street, as an extension of Guildhall Square and the park.

“Together, the openings will help consolidate this part of northern Above Bar as a great place in which local residents can live, work and enjoy their leisure time.”

Guildhall Place replaces the former cut through underneath Tyrell & Green, linking the park and Above Bar.