16th January 2023
Hull City Council has appointed Hull Esteem as the delivery vehicle to undertake £1.5m improvement works to the existing dock gates at North End Shipyard, the new home of the Arctic Corsair.
Working in partnership with Esteem and supply chain partners Spencer Group, the two-phase project will consist of structural improvements and repair to the dry dock gates, including the design of the new permanent solution to enable the berthing of the Arctic Corsair to become a new visitor attraction for the city.
Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “This appointment of Hull Esteem is an important milestone for the project.
“The North End Shipyard is one of the city’s best kept secrets and this improvement work is one element to create a new dry dock and home for the Arctic Corsair for residents and visitors to learn and explore.
“I am looking forward to seeing work progress at North End Shipyard and regenerate this hidden area of Hull’s Old Town.”
Gavin Barley, General Manager for Hull Esteem, said: “This is a new and challenging scheme in many ways, but a great opportunity for Esteem and the Spencer Group to work in partnership to regenerate one of Hull’s most important maritime treasures.
“We’re looking forward to being able to play our part in the much wider programme of works currently under development to create an exciting new maritime route that will guide visitors through the heart of the city.”

Phase one works will include:
- Site investigations
- Creation of watertight structure within the dock
- Reinforcing and repairing the structures to strengthen and prepare for the construction of the dock gate
- Developing of a permanent design for an entrance to the dock that will maintain the watertight integrity once the Arctic Corsair has been moved into position within the dock
Phase two will include:
- Construction of the designed solution to maintain integrity and watertightness of the dock
- Construction of a permanent dock wall behind stop logs
- Making area structurally sound
Completion is expected spring next year.
The new attraction is due to open summer 2024.
Hull Maritime is funded by Hull City Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The major regeneration programme includes the restoration of the Arctic Corsair and Spurn Lightship, the creation of a new visitor attraction at North End Shipyard, and the refurbishment of Dock Office Chambers and the Hull Maritime Museum.