5th January 2026
Associated British Ports (ABP) Humber has announced its full support for Hull Maritime by becoming the project’s first corporate partner, committing a significant amount to help bring the city’s rich maritime story to life.
The funding will play a pivotal role in supporting the redevelopment of the Hull Maritime Museum - once a key former dock administration building, particularly in telling the story of the port’s past, present, and future - with a strong focus on green energy and sustainability. The transformed museum is set to reopen in summer 2026.
The new exhibitions will highlight Hull’s global trade connections, showcasing the city’s historic and modern-day trade routes and destinations. Visitors will be immersed in stories that reflect Hull’s maritime legacy and its evolving role in the world.
Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “We are especially grateful for their donation which goes towards a £2.6m match-funding goal and becoming the first and major corporate partner, showing their support for a project that is transforming and celebrating Hull’s rich maritime story.
“This demonstrates their confidence in our ability to deliver a world-class maritime experience that no other city can.
“Our storytelling reflects the continued importance of Hull and the Humber region as a maritime centre for business and innovation and we are keen to build relationships with industry partners to integrate within our exhibitions, education and community engagement.”
Andrew Dawes, Regional Director for the Humber Ports, said: “We’re delighted to support Hull Maritime and the transformation of the Hull Maritime Museum, a place that resonates deeply with our heritage and purpose. As the former dock office, the museum stands on the very foundations of Hull’s maritime legacy - one that ABP is proud to continue through our mission of Keeping Britain Trading.
“Our involvement in the museum’s new chapter has been both meaningful and personal. This is more than sponsorship - it’s a celebration of the people, places, and progress that define the Humber’s maritime identity, past and present.”
ABP has long been a key player in Hull’s maritime history. Today, the Humber Estuary remains one of the UK’s busiest trading gateways, with over 40,000 shipping movements each year - a testament to its enduring importance and vitality.
This partnership marks a significant milestone in the Hull Maritime project, reinforcing the city’s ambition to create a world-class visitor experience that honours its maritime heritage while looking firmly to the future.
The Hull Maritime project includes the refurbishment of the Grade II* listed Hull Maritime Museum, a new bespoke storage facility for the reserve collection, the transformation of Hull city centre’s major green space – Queen’s Gardens, the North End Shipyard and two historic vessels, the Arctic Corsair and Spurn Lightship.
