Updated plans for a section of Queen’s Gardens have been unveiled by Hull City Council. The major £21 million city centre project is nearing completion ahead the expected spring 2026 reopening.
In December 2024, the council announced that the Queen’s Gardens project would include a dedicated ‘peace and contemplation’ area for people to remembers loved ones lost during the Covid-19 pandemic. In response to community input, the plans have been updated to now incorporate additional seating designed for accessibility and comfort, ensuring visitors of all ages and abilities can fully enjoy the space.
The council say the improvements are part of the vision to create a welcoming space where visitors can pause, relax and enjoy the surrounding planting and views over the newly refurbished eastern pond, towards the Wilberforce Monument. By focusing on seating and accessibility, it is hoped that more people will benefit from this tranquil part of the gardens.
Upon the announcement of the initial plans, the leader of Hull City Council, Cllr Mike Ross spoke of the importance of the remembrance area. He said: “We know how important it is to continue the memorial aspect of this location whilst also embracing the recent losses of human life during the Covid-19 global pandemic.
“So many were affected by the pandemic and this space gives people the chance to connect, talk, and reflect as well as remember those lost during Covid-19. I hope residents and visitors will take the opportunity to spend time here, whether with friends and family members or in quiet contemplation.”
Following the unveiling of the updated plans, Cllr Ross has now added: “We are grateful to the community for their invaluable feedback. This project is about creating an inclusive and peaceful space for reflection, and the revisions reflect our commitment to listening to residents’ needs. By improving the seating, we are ensuring that everyone can find comfort, connection and tranquillity within this green space.”
Once the Gardens have reopened, the council hopes the area will become a key event space in the city. The project has included the installation of the infrastructure needed for the land to host large events such as live music performances.
The project is also a piece of the wider Hull Maritime project which seeks to regenerate and embrace areas that were key parts of Hull’s maritime history. The project also includes the ongoing refurbishments of the Maritime Museum and the North End Shipyard.
By: Andrew Spence, LDRS
