Hull maritime visitor centre achieves Passivhaus accreditation 

Designed by Purcell, the building at North End Shipyard has officially earnt the energy efficiency standard.

A key part of Hull’s regeneration strategy, the centre will become the permanent home of the Arctic Corsair, the city’s last remaining sidewinder trawler once it is berthed in the dry-dock.

Achieving Passivhaus status shows the council’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the cultural sector.

The visitor centre has reduced energy consumption and carbon emissions due to its high-quality insulation, airtight construction, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, and thermal bridge-free design.

Cllr Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “This award is a testament to Hull’s commitment to preserving our heritage while building a greener future.

“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: “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.”