Rare crane comes back after being restored

A historically significant crane has been reinstalled in Hull following an extensive restoration, part of a 27.5 million initiative to highlight the city's maritime heritage. The 18-tonne Scotch Derrick crane represents one of the last remnants of the shipbuilding era along the River Hull, which concluded in the 1990s.

In 2021, the crane was carefully dismantled by Mona Lifting Limited, an engineering firm based in Anglesey, and transported for specialized conservation work. It has now been returned to the North End Shipyard, which is being transformed into a new visitor destination featuring The Arctic Corsair, Hulls final sidewinder trawler.

The crane is believed to date back to the 1950s, likely installed when the shipyard upgraded its former lock pit into a modern dry dock. Historically, the North End Shipyard is notable for constructing both HMS Bounty, famed for the 1789 mutiny, and HMS Boreas, once under the command of Horatio Nelson.

The reinstallation of the crane is part of the broader Hull Maritime Project, which also encompasses enhancements to the Hull Maritime Museum and the Queens Gardens. Although the project has experienced delays, completion is anticipated in summer 2026.

The cranes return marks a significant milestone in preserving Hulls maritime legacy and providing visitors with a glimpse into the citys shipbuilding past.

Restoration of Hull's Historic Crane: A Significant Step in Maritime Heritage Preservation

The recent reinstallation of Hull's historically significant Scotch Derrick crane marks an important moment in the city's ongoing efforts to preserve its maritime legacy. After undergoing a meticulous restoration, the crane is now part of the £27.5 million Hull Maritime Project, which is dedicated to reviving Hull's shipbuilding history. This 18-tonne crane, dating back to the 1950s, symbolizes the city's rich industrial past, particularly the shipbuilding era that came to an end in the 1990s.

Despite the project's delays, with the final phase expected to complete by summer 2026, the crane's return is a significant achievement. It now stands as a centerpiece at the North End Shipyard, which is being transformed into a new visitor destination. The crane's reinstallation alongside The Arctic Corsair, Hull’s last sidewinder trawler, offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the city's nautical history. Additionally, the North End Shipyard's historical importance, being the site where iconic ships such as HMS Bounty and HMS Boreas were constructed, further enhances the crane's significance.

As Hull continues to develop its maritime tourism offerings, the crane's restoration serves as a testament to the city's commitment to honoring its past. Visitors can now explore both the crane and the broader maritime heritage, offering a deeper understanding of Hull’s pivotal role in Britain’s shipbuilding history.

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• Rare crane returns after restoration