Two major milestones have been reached this spring for the Arctic Corsair, the historic trawler that will be a centrepiece of Hull’s maritime heritage trail.
In April, a successful trial run of the vessel’s planned relocation was completed. Using Deans Marine tugboats and a barge of similar size and profile to the Arctic Corsair, the convoy replicated the route that the vessel will take along the Humber Estuary and River Hull to its final home in the North End Shipyard later this year.
The trial tested the full navigation passage to provide vital insights that will ensure the Arctic Corsair’s relocation is safe and successful. The trial took place during similar timings and tidal conditions to identify and mitigate any obstacles and potential challenges that may arise. The exercise provided key data that will inform the detailed passage plan being developed by specialist navigational risk experts, NASH Maritime.
Meanwhile, the Arctic Corsair was placed in dry dock for the final time in June, where it will undergo the final finishing touches of its restoration by Dunstons Ship Repairs before the big move.
Spencer Group have also begun dredging works to provide a safe navigational passage and access for the upcoming dock gate replacement. This operation has involved removing approximately 3,500m2 of silt from the River Hull, using advanced water treatment systems to ensure the water is effectively treated and returned to the river.
The Arctic Corsair’s restoration is part of the Hull Maritime project, a Hull City Council initiative supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The project aims to create an immersive and educational new maritime heritage trail that includes Spurn Lightship, the Arctic Corsair, the North End Shipyard and the Maritime Museum.
Beckett Rankine has been the Client Naval Architect, Engineer and Technical Supervisor of the Hull Maritime project since 2018, providing expert support, design and project management services to support the conservation of these historically important maritime assets. For the Arctic Corsair, this has included:
- creating the Conservation and Maintenance Management Plans that underpin the restoration and guide its future care;
- specifying and overseeing the restoration works of both the vessel and the North End Shipyard;
- early concept design of the dock gate and supervising its fabrication and installation;
- specifying and supervising the dredging; and
- supporting all tendering, consents and licensing throughout.
Click to enlarge images.
