A new vision for the Humber: Latest Lagoon Hull plans revealed
The proposed Lagoon Hull map. Images by Joseph Cox, Form Shop and Studio
By Rick Lyon
The latest plans for Lagoon Hull have been revealed, which show how the ambitious project would be split into four separate zones.
Lagoon Hull would see the construction of an eight-mile stretch of road that would act as a ring-road around Hull as well as providing flood protection, creating a lagoon and opening up the opportunity to “reimagine Hull’s waterfront” for new development.
It aims to provide a significant economic boost to the region, estimated to be up to £1bn GVA per year, by creating 19,000 new jobs.
In plans revealed today at Humber Business Week, the project team has now announced how Lagoon Hull would be split into four key zones. The zones would be:
The City Zone - Boating and water sports would transform Lagoon Hull into a recreational area for residents and tourists, with concepts such as floating art and research centres, alongside new bars and cafes. Water buses would provide transport up the River Hull towards Beverley and a ‘beacon’ watchtower would be built overlooking the Humber from the new causeway. The plans also factor in the potential cruise terminal for Victoria Dock.
The City Zone
The Living Zone - Derelict land either side of St Andrew’s Quay would be transformed into a vibrant, sought-after residential area. As well as protecting current ‘at risk’ homes from flooding, the project would develop revolutionary waterfront housing. The aim is to create a new marina development, providing the opportunity to live in a tranquil and sustainable waterfront community.
The Living Zone
The Nature Zone - Beginning at Hessle Foreshore, and including features such as floating islands and boardwalks across the mudflats and wetlands, the project would provide new habitats for the Humber’s wildlife. Designated ‘wild areas’ would allow plants and wildlife to thrive and interactive wildlife trails would provide education opportunities.
The Nature Zone
The Port Zone - The city would benefit from increased port capacity, with extended transport links available for both goods and logistics. Space for two significant new dock spaces would allow the Humber’s green industries to further flourish while vital green space areas and habitats would be built into the dock edge to ensure a symbiotic environment for business and nature to thrive alongside each other.
The Port Zone
Paul Hatley, Lagoon Hull Project Director, said: “Lagoon Hull is a project for everyone and I am excited to be able to reveal more of our vision with the people who matter most – the people of the Humber.
“The four zones will make sure all of our key aims are achieved while also giving plenty of space to give something back to our communities. While this announcement gives everyone a clearer vision of how Lagoon Hull will look, this is by no means final. I am still keen to hear ideas for what residents would like to incorporate into the Lagoon Hull vision to make sure we make the very most of this once in a lifetime opportunity.
“I can’t wait to share more updates as the project progresses.”
The concept has been developed by the Lagoon Hull project team in collaboration with 2B Landscape Consultancy.
Bill Blackledge, Managing Director of 2B Landscape Consultancy, said: “I have enjoyed working on the zoning plans for the Lagoon Hull project from a landscape perspective, whilst considering the biodiversity, amenity, recreation, business and transport elements that must be factored in to make it a success.
“It’s an extremely exciting project that I believe must be explored further, as it has many merits that could have significant, wide-ranging benefits for the region on a number of fronts, but it also faces some notable challenges. I am looking forward to thorough discussions about both concept and detail.”