‘This is more than sponsorship – it’s a celebration of the people, places, and progress that define the Humber’s maritime identity’
Associated British Ports (ABP) Humber has been announced as the first corporate partner of Hull’s Maritime Project. Hull City Council has announced that the firm has contributed towards the major project which includes the ongoing Queen’s Gardens and Maritime Museum schemes.
The council say the funding will play a pivotal role in the development of the Maritime Museum, which is set to finally reopen this Summer. Once reopened, the museum will display over 50 per cent more items than previously.
The leader of Hull City Council, Cllr Mike Ross said: “We’re 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.”
The Maritime Project also includes the restoration of two iconic vessels from Hull’s maritime past. Work on both the Artic Corsair and the Spurn Lightship are included in the project.
The upcoming completion of the project has been a key factor in Hull being named in the Top 25 global destinations to visit in 2026 by National Geographic. Cllr Ross has said that Hull being named in the prestigious list is “a huge honour for Hull and a powerful recognition of how far our city has come.”
After a number of high profile delays to Queen’s Gardens and the Maritime Museum, 2026 is set to be the year where the project begins to come together. The council say that once complete, the new maritime experience will add £5.5m to the local economy each year and attract more visitors to the city.
Is Hull the best place to live in Yorkshire? You can have your say by completing the poll below or by clicking here.