BLOG | Spurn Lightship. What is happening?

As you can read here, the ship’s official name is ‘Light Vessel No.12, Spurn’. Built in 1927 by Goole Shipbuilding and Repairing Co Ltd, it is included on the UK’s National Historic Ships Register.

The next phase of work includes fitting a system of mooring chains and the completion of the site landscaping.

For the level access ramp to work the ship must be stable position at the wet berth. The ramp has a range of dynamic adjustments to respond to the changes of water levels in the marina. Mooring ropes can both shrink and swell. This range of movement is too great for reliable use of the ramp. Dunston Ship Repairs Limited are installing chain moorings to (literally) steady the ship.

The finishing of the quay side of the wet berth does look a straightforward job. Everything is ready so why the apparent delay? What you cannot see in this image is the substructure of the walkway at the corner of the marina. This small corner is a bridge over the edge of the original Humber Dock. You can see down into the structure when you walk towards Railway Dock. Solid and safe for everyday passage but not for heavier machinery or materials. Things just take slightly more time to complete when dealing with the oddities of Hull’s old buildings and docks.

The saying ‘like painting the Forth Bridge’ holds very true on the lightship. Unlike the Forth Bridges (which are not constantly repainted as modern paint formulations are more resilient) Spurn needs constant attention.

The wooden planks of the decking are original, so almost one hundred years old. To preserve the decks, they need cleaning. Swabbing down not only clears dust, moss, mould, and algal growth from the deck is also keeps the planks swollen. Sunlight dries out the wood. Splits in the wood or gaps between the plank’s risks water getting into the lower deck. Spurn’s maintenance routine involves volunteers swabbing, cleaning, and checking the ship twice weekly. This is essential to preserve the fabric of the lightship.

Below deck condensation is a constant concern. Dehumidifiers and good old-fashioned mopping keep the place pristine and dry.

It is below decks that the story of the crew of the light ship, the domestic details come to life in a unique way. More relatable, closer. Here the living space looks functional and robust. This bathroom almost promises a good soak until you notice how small the tub is. But how welcoming would it be after a shift in a blistering summer’s day or after a storm in the Humber Estuary?

Part of the new interpretation and displays include this marvellous installation by Heinrich and Palmer. I found it quite mesmerising.

I am looking forward to the opening.

During my visit I noticed fish swimming nearby. In the marina were mullet, which I was surprised about, and the volunteers say they often see crabs in the marina.