Enjoy this article?
Most Museums Journal content is only available to members. Join the MA to get full access to the latest thinking and trends from across the sector, case studies and best practice advice.
Fit-out starts at Hull Maritime Museum
The £12m revamp is expected to be complete in spring 2026
A scheme to redevelop Hull Maritime Museum has moved to its next stage with the building now ready for the fit-out.
Work started on the £12m scheme in January 2022 led by main contractor Simpsons of York and architect Purcell. Fit-out specialist Marcon will now start installing the new displays, which will take about a year to complete with the venue expected to reopen in spring 2026.
The redevelopment of Hull Maritime Museum has been supported by a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Other funders include Hull City Council.
“We are eager to begin the next stage of the programme with the installation of the new displays, technology and projections and signage that will showcase the city’s rich maritime heritage,” said councillor Mike Ross, the leader of Hull City Council. "This will be a museum for the city and its residents to be proud of.”
The museum’s 40-foot North Atlantic right whale skeleton will return in spring 2025 following conservation. The popular and much-loved Erik the polar bear will also return.
The scheme is part of the wider Hull Maritime project, which includes the restoration of the Spurn Lightship and the Arctic Corsair and regeneration of the North End Shipyard.
Advertisement
Hull Maritime is part of a number of cultural regeneration projects that are building on the city’s time as the UK City of Culture in 2017.
Bradford will be the UK City of Culture in 2025.
The January/February issue of Museums Journal will include a number of articles on cultural regeneration, including the long-term impact on places that have been UK cities of culture.