Companies invited to bid for major maritime regeneration project

Businesses are being asked to be part of a maritime and regeneration project in Hull.

They will have the opportunity to submit tenders to embark on an extensive refurbishment of one of the most prominent buildings in the city, the Hull Maritime Museum, and the Dock Office Chambers forming part of the continued regeneration of Hull city centre.

The revamp of the Hull Maritime Museum will reveal more of its original architecture, create new and improved visitor facilities and the second floor of the building will open to the public as well as access to the building’s domes.

This refurbishment is intended to create an interactive and engaging museum, improving the visitor experience for everyone.

Plans also include a new and welcoming three-storey foyer that will draw people into the heart of the building and central core, providing a thematic  introduction to the galleries beyond.

This will be created by reopening up the original light well that helped to illuminate the Victorian dock offices.

New viewing balconies in this central area will help visitors orientate themselves within the galleries and enjoy the splendours of the original architecture.

The Hull: Yorkshire’s Maritime City project is funded by Hull City Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Councillor Daren Hale, portfolio holder for economic investment, regeneration, planning, land and property, said: “This is a key milestone in the project as we move forward with another exciting regeneration project in the city.

“The transformation of key maritime treasures will have a considerable impact on the city centre, its economy as well as attracting additional visitors.

“This significant investment to the much-loved and well known museum and former dock offices will give the city a world-class museum it deserves, right in the heart of its city centre.”

Prior to works starting, 50,000 objects will need to be carefully packed and moved from the museum.

The refurbishment is expected to take 18 months to complete, and then the task to install the new displays and exhibitions will get underway, which is expected to take approximately a year to complete. The museum is expected to reopen in early 2024.

Companies interested in the project must submit tenders by Monday 28 September.