23rd October 2025
The new visitor centre at North End Shipyard has officially achieved Passivhaus certification, making it one of the most energy-efficient cultural buildings in the UK.
Designed by Purcell Architects, the visitor centre is a key part of Hull’s regeneration strategy and will serve as the permanent home of the Arctic Corsair, the city’s last remaining sidewinder trawler. Preserved in dry-dock, the Arctic Corsair will be showcased in a way that allows visitors to fully appreciate her scale and historical significance.
Achieving Passivhaus status is a major milestone, reflecting the council’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the cultural sector. Passivhaus buildings are constructed to rigorous standards that drastically reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. The visitor centre meets all key criteria, including:
- High-quality insulation to minimise heat exchange with the external environment
- Airtight construction with double or triple-glazed windows to prevent uncontrolled airflow
- Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to maintain indoor air quality and energy efficiency
- Thermal bridge-free design to eliminate gaps in insulation and reduce heating and cooling needs
- Independent certification by a registered Passivhaus Certifier
Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “This award is a testament to Hull’s commitment to preserving our heritage while building a greener future.
“The North End Shipyard Visitor Centre not only honours the city’s proud maritime past but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable cultural buildings in the UK.
“That it has received such recognition even before opening its doors to the public makes the achievement all the more remarkable.”
Owen Plummer, Associate Architect at Purcell, said: “We are thrilled that the North End Shipyard visitor centre has received this sustainability and social impact award, and are delighted to be working with Hull City Council in our collective vision of sustainably designing places where people can belong, encompassing sustainable design for the benefit of our communities.”
Andy Newbitt, Construction Director at Ashcourt, said: “We’re proud to be part of a project that not only contributes to the local community but also creates a landmark attraction for visitors. Building the UK’s first Passivhaus of its kind aligns with our sustainability goals and helps preserve the legacy of the Arctic Corsair and the historic shipyard for future generations.”
The North End Shipyard visitor centre is now recognised as a model of low-carbon architecture, combining heritage preservation with cutting-edge environmental performance. Visitors will be able to explore the story of the Arctic Corsair in a space that reflects Hull’s proud past and ambitious future.
The North End Shipyard visitor centre is part of Hull Maritime, a key regeneration programme transforming some of the city’s maritime treasures.
The new visitor centre will open to the public once the Arctic Corsair has been berthed in the dry-dock next year.
