River Hull dredging begins to clear route for Arctic Corsair’s final journey

COMPLEX: Engineers begin work on the dredging operation

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

Major dredging work is underway on the River Hull to help create a new home for historic trawler Arctic Corsair, and to help her get there.

The work, being led by Spencer Group, is to create a clear and safe navigational route to allow the Corsair’s move from Dunston Ship Repairs in William Wright Dock to a dry‑dock at North End Shipyard, which will be her permanent berth.

To prepare the riverbed, about 3,500 m³ of silt and waste is being removed from the river between Drypool Bridge and North Bridge.

The dredging programme, executed in strategic phases over 12 weeks – depending on wind and tide – involves a “complex engineering solution” to handle the material responsibly, Hull City Council said.

Sediment lifted from the river will be pumped directly into North Dock, which will act as a temporary treatment facility. Solid waste will then be separated from the water before being transported off-site for specialist disposal. The cleaned water will be safely discharged back into the river.

MAJESTIC: Arctic Corsair on her way to Dunston’s shipyard for restoration in October 2021. Picture by Neil Holmes

This phase follows the successful completion of preparatory works and structural surveys on the North Dock, confirming its ability to manage the dredged material securely.

Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “This is a technically complex and vital operation that effectively clears the path for the Arctic Corsair’s final journey.

“By clearing the riverbed and preparing the dock, we are ensuring that when the tides are right this summer, we can bring this piece of Hull’s history home safely. It is a huge logistical challenge, but one that takes us a massive step closer to opening this world-class visitor attraction.”

Following the dredging, the existing dock gate will be removed and replaced with a modern structure to permanently seal the dock and protect the vessel. This work will continue through to July, ensuring the berth is ready for the trawler’s arrival. The date of the trawler’s move will be shared once confirmed.

The regeneration of the North End Shipyard is a centrepiece of Hull Maritime, the city’s ambitious project to preserve and celebrate its seafaring heritage. The project is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the city council.