National Highways previously announced they had become ‘unable’ to deliver funding for the visitor attraction
A concept design showing how the new visitor attraction at the South Blockhouse archaeological site in Hull could look(Image: Hull City Council/The Manser Practice)
The South Blockhouse project is to receive extra funding from Hull City Council after a previous backer became ‘unable’ to provide funding. The project will turn part of the historical site near The Deep into a new interactive visitor attraction.
Large mesh structures will depict the footprint of part of the blockhouse and fortress, known as Hull Castle, which was built in the mid 16th century on the orders of King Henry VIII. The site will have interactive elements with various QR codes, providing virtual and augmented reality experiences.
In Spring 2025, National Highways announced they had become ‘unable’ to provide funding for the scheme. This led to concern for the project’s future, with Karl Turner, Hull East MP, at the time suggesting the project could be at “risk.”
Upon announcing the decision to not fund the project, Tim Gamon, Regional Delivery Director at National Highways, said: “National Highways is committed to investing in improvements in Hull, such as the A63 Castle Street project which will reduce congestion, and several other projects have been funded in the city during the last few years. While we had previously supported the initial stages of the South Blockhouse Project, we were unable to progress with further funding.”
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After National Highways became “unable” to provide £1 million towards the project, the council looked into other ways of funding the scheme. Hull City Council has now provided extra funding to ensure the new visitor attraction comes to fruition. The council’s capital programme figures for 2026/27 show an extra £1.16 million being allocated to the project, taking the total to over £1.5 million.
Cllr Mike Ross, leader of the council, said: “Following the disappointing decision of National Highways to withdraw their financial support for the South Blockhouse project, it was vital to find alternative ways to preserve its future. This decision demonstrates our commitment to protecting Hull’s heritage and making sure the untold story of this ancient monument is shared. The South Blockhouse is a unique part of our city’s history that shaped our city, and by allocating this funding we are preserving an important link to Hull’s past for generations to come.