A multi-million-pound refurbishment project of Hull Maritime Museum is underway by Yorkshire based company, Simpson
Investment from Hull City Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund will see major changes to the building and exhibitions.
For the first time, more of the Victorian architecture will be revealed and the second floor will open to the public, as well as access to one of the building’s domes.
A new three-storey foyer will bring visitors into the heart of the building and new galleries and control systems will allow the museum to host new national and international exhibitions.
Original Victorian architecture
Accessibility to the building will undergo major improvements whilst maintaining the original architecture. The plans include a new entrance ramp and stairs, lift and changing place.
The museum is expected to re-open in early 2025 with 50% more objects on display. An extended gift shop and a brand-new café area will also be created.
‘Sgnificant milestone for the Hull Maritime project’
Councillor Daren Hale, leader of Hull City Council, said: “The refurbishment of the Hull Maritime Museum is a significant milestone for the Hull Maritime project.
“It will be great to see the transformation as it progresses, creating a museum that will attract new and more diverse visitors.
“This major investment will ensure the stories of Hull’s maritime past will continue to be told, and importantly in new and engaging ways to showcase our significant collections to the world.“Whilst we will all miss visiting the museum and its collection, this work is vital to its future and the result will be well worth the wait.”
David Renwick, director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It is fantastic news that, thanks to the National Lottery players, the Hull Maritime Museum is now entered its renovation phase, a significant milestone for the Hull Maritime City project which we are proud to support.
“As work also progresses at the former Dock Office Chambers and on the two iconic historic ships, the Arctic Corsair and the Spurn Lightship, we are looking forward to witnessing the transformation that Hull Maritime is bringing to Hull.
‘Heritage in the North’
“We know that heritage in the North can play a huge role in bringing people together and creating a sense of pride in people’s hometowns and cities, and in turn boosting the local economy, and this project is a fantastic example of that.”
Andrew Gatenby, managing director at Simpson, said: “We are proud to be the main contractor on the works to the historic Hull Maritime Museum.
“We are looking forward to working with Hull City Council in creating a wonderful attraction for all to enjoy.”
