Passivhaus accreditation for maritime visitor centre
CULTURAL LEADER: North End Shipyard visitor centre
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
The new visitor centre at North End Shipyard has officially achieved Passivhaus certification, making it one of the most energy-efficient cultural buildings in the UK.
Designed by Purcell Architects, the centre is a key part of Hull’s regeneration strategy and will serve as the permanent home of Arctic Corsair, the city’s last remaining sidewinder trawler. Once berthed in the dry-dock, the restored ship will be showcased in a way that allows visitors to fully appreciate her scale and historical significance.
Achieving Passivhaus status is a major milestone, reflecting Hull City Council’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the cultural sector, it said. Passivhaus buildings are constructed to rigorous standards that drastically reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. The visitor centre meets all key criteria, including:
High-quality insulation to minimise heat exchange with the external environment
Airtight construction with double or triple-glazed windows to prevent uncontrolled airflow
Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to maintain indoor air quality and energy efficiency
Thermal bridge-free design to eliminate gaps in insulation and reduce heating and cooling needs
Independent certification by a registered Passivhaus certifier
Councillor Mike Ross, leader of the council, said: “This award is a testament to Hull’s commitment to preserving our heritage while building a greener future.
HOW IT COULD LOOK: An impression of Arctic Corsair in its new berth
“The North End Shipyard visitor centre not only honours the city’s proud maritime past but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable cultural buildings in the UK.
“That it has received such recognition even before opening its doors to the public makes the achievement all the more remarkable.”
Owen Plummer, associate architect at Purcell, said: “We are thrilled that the North End Shipyard visitor centre has received this sustainability and social impact award, and are delighted to be working with Hull City Council in our collective vision of sustainably designing places where people can belong, encompassing sustainable design for the benefit of our communities.”
Andy Newbitt, construction director at Ashcourt, said: “We’re proud to be part of a project that not only contributes to the local community but also creates a landmark attraction for visitors. Building the UK’s first Passivhaus of its kind aligns with our sustainability goals and helps preserve the legacy of the Arctic Corsair and the historic shipyard for future generations.”
The centre is now recognised as a model of low-carbon architecture, combining heritage preservation with cutting-edge environmental performance.
A key part of the Hull Maritime project, the centre will open to the public next year when Arctic Corsair has been berthed in the dry-dock.