Queen’s Gardens reopens after £21m regeneration in Hull city centre
Project restores iconic green space with innovative features
Queen’s Gardens in Hull is set to fully reopen to the public tomorrow (29 May), marking the completion of a £21m transformation.
The ambitious project aimed to repair, transform, and futureproof this vital city centre green space.
Led by local contractor CR Reynolds, the regeneration took place over two years, utilising designs from Southern Green Landscape Architects and Purcell Architects.
The redevelopment included new boundary walls, high-quality paving, accessible ramps, steps, extensive landscaping, and tree planting.
These enhancements create a welcoming, inclusive space for both residents and visitors.
Queen’s Gardens, which sits atop the former Queen’s Dock, faced health and safety challenges due to structural deterioration.
This necessitated complex engineering works beneath the surface to ensure long-term safety.
The phased reopening saw a significant portion of the gardens open last month, allowing the public to enjoy the space as final works were completed.
Councillor Mike Ross expressed his enthusiasm about the project being more comprehensive than initially proposed, stating it reflects Hull's maritime heritage whilst addressing modern needs.
He also thanked the community for their patience during the transformation.
Ros Southern from Southern Green Landscape Architects highlighted the careful planning and high-quality materials involved in the project.
The redeveloped gardens feature echoes of the original dock layout, scrimshaw artwork, and diverse planting that supports pollinators.
Additionally, Queen’s Gardens serve as a pedestrian link between cultural landmarks like the Hull Maritime Museum and North End Shipyard, enhancing the broader Hull Maritime regeneration program.
A temporary outdoor exhibition is available within the gardens until 7th June, giving visitors insight into the history and transformation of Queen’s Gardens.