A five-year plan to significantly improve and enhance many of the city’s bridges, statues, monuments and fountains has been given the green light by Hull City Council’s Cabinet.

Approval for the investment marks a major shift in the council’s approach to preserving the city’s infrastructure by bringing together capital spending, inspection, and maintenance into a single, coordinated plan.

This new approach is designed to preserve Hull’s history, keep the city moving and ensure the longevity and conservation of its vital infrastructure and assets.

To support the city’s long-term plan, Hull City Council leader, Mike Ross, has written to the government to request funding from its recently announced £1bn Structures Fund.

The government unveiled the fund on 16 June as part of a national initiative to enhance, repair and futureproof England’s transport infrastructure and road network.

As well as maintaining and improving Hull’s infrastructure, the investment programme also aims to support local businesses and boost economic growth and development in the city and the wider region. 

By proactively prioritising infrastructure improvements, the council aims to reduce the risk of emergency closures, improve safety, support the local economy and create jobs by improving journey times and the reliability of public transport. 

Ross said: “This programme marks a significant step forward for Hull. We’ve set out a plan to tackle some of the city’s most serious infrastructure challenges over the next five years.

“We’re investing in the future of our infrastructure, protecting Hull’s cultural heritage and ensuring reliable transport links for everyone here.

“This plan has Hull’s bridges at the heart of it and will help us avoid disruptive emergency closures and keep the city moving.

“By passing this plan the council is supporting Hull’s economy, preserving our culture and giving people who live here the infrastructure they deserve.

“The council has a plan, and if the government wants to support Hull, they’ll send more investment our way.”