Work on the historic ship and its dockside surroundings at Hull Marina is entering its last phase
The final stages of work on Spurn Lightship and its surroundings at Hull Marina are now underway as it prepares to open to the public. The revamp of the area will ensure ‘an inviting gateway’ to the ship along with a welcoming safe public space.
Key features of this phase of work include connecting the gangway for safe public access to the historic ship, installing barrier fencing around the marina edge, and planting vibrant seasonal flowers and greenery.
Local engineering and construction firm C R Reynolds has begun landscaping the area around the lightship at Hull Marina, with essential enhancements transforming the space into an inviting gateway for visitors as well as improving accessibility to the marina and city centre for nearby residents.
Councillor Jackie Dad, deputy leader of Hull City Council, said: “The landscaping marks the final piece of the jigsaw in preparing the Spurn Lightship to open its doors. With the shore-side interpretation and landscaping now starting, the final touches will transform the marina area into an inviting gateway to the Spurn Lightship.
“From the ship’s gangway providing safe public access, to the new fencing and vibrant seasonal planting, each enhancement ensures the marina becomes a welcoming space for all to enjoy.”
Due to the ship’s unique location, construction materials and machinery must be lifted on-site via crane as the nearby pedestrian footbridge cannot support heavy machinery. This logistical challenge has extended the project timeline, with a five-month work programme now in place.
The Spurn Lightship will open to the public in spring 2026, avoiding the worst of the winter weather and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Councillor Dad added: “The location of the work needed has provided us with challenges we have had to navigate. Now we have a solution, work has started, and I am looking forward to stepping on board and welcoming visitors back to this special lightship and sharing its story.”
Once open, the Spurn Lightship will offer a revitalised maritime attraction that balances historical preservation with an improved visitor experience, including enhanced accessibility for all. The restoration, led by Dunston Ship Repair, has carefully maintained the ship’s original character while modernising its facilities.
The Spurn Lightship’s return is a key element of the Hull Maritime project, a major heritage initiative led by Hull City Council and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Alongside the lightship, the project includes the transformation of the Hull Maritime Museum, transformation of Queen’s Gardens, the restoration of the Arctic Corsair, and the development of her new home at North End Shipyard.