A huge project to protect and promote Hull’s maritime history will become a reality after the approval of a £13.6m grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The Hull: Yorkshire’s Maritime City project is the next major phase in the regeneration of Hull as a historic maritime city.
It will see Hull Maritime Museum, Dock Office Chambers and the North End Shipyard regenerated, the historic Arctic Corsair and Spurn Lightship vessels preserved and maritime trail created between the attractions. The intention is that the Viola will occupy a second dry dock next to the Arctic Corsair.
The £13.6m grant from the National Lottery has been bolstered by £10m in match-funding from Hull City Council , along with £4.3m for the redevelopment of Queens Gardens, which will connect the three important sites involved in the project.
Councillor Daren Hale, portfolio holder for economic investment, regeneration, planning, land and property, said: “This is fantastic news. We are absolutely delighted that we have been awarded this substantial funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
“This is a real game-changer for Hull. This is continued investment and regeneration for our city and our proud heritage, bringing far reaching benefits for everyone as well as reaffirming our role as a thriving cultural and maritime city.
“Thanks to National Lottery players, we are now a step closer to restoring and refurbishing a number of heritage sites which are packed with historical significance, as well as creating a new and exciting maritime experience that the people of Hull and visitors will be proud of. This significant investment will also give an area steeped in maritime history a new lease of life.
“This is an exciting time for Hull and with this funding we can now set our plans in motion and the ambitious plans can come to fruition.”
Paul Escreet, Chair of the Trustees of the Viola Trust, wrote to congratulate the City Council. He said: “I offer our hearty congratulations to Hull City Council, you and your team on securing this further funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund for the Hull: Yorkshire Maritime City project. We look forward to being part of your vision moving forward.”
Picture shows an artist’s impression of North End shipyard.
