A major milestone has been reached in the mission to save HMS Unicorn, as the Unicorn Preservation Society (UPS) announces it has successfully unlocked its incredible £796k National Lottery Heritage Fund grant through matched funding and has received the official green light to proceed with the next critical phase of Project Safe Haven.
With this significant fundraising target now achieved – thanks to the generosity of the public, supporters, and transformative donations from a number of local and regional Trusts and Foundations – the charity can now begin Phase Two of the project. This stage is focussed on reducing the risk of total loss to the ship and improving access for long-term conservation.
The next phase of work will see the development of plans for Dundee’s historic East Graving Dock to be emptied and structurally repaired, including the installation of a new caisson. Once complete, the dock will be refilled to receive HMS Unicorn, which will be floated into position over a specially engineered supportive cradle – a vital step toward stabilising the 201-year-old vessel and protecting her for future generations.
Dr Andrew Tibbs, CEO of the Unicorn Preservation Society, said:
“We are enormously grateful to everyone who has helped us reach this critical milestone – from individuals who donated and fundraised, to the organisations who backed our vision.”
“With this next phase of Project Safe Haven now underway, we are not only working to secure HMS Unicorn’s physical future, but also to realise our ambition of establishing a world-class heritage destination here in Dundee. HMS Unicorn is of international importance – one of the oldest ships in the world and a rare survivor from the golden age of sail. She deserves to be protected and celebrated on a global stage.”
Project Safe Haven is one of the most ambitious maritime preservation initiatives in the UK. HMS Unicorn, built in 1824 and now an accredited museum and popular visitor attraction, is at serious risk due to her age, condition, and exposure to water ingress. Relocating the ship to a dry, structurally safe environment is an urgent priority for the Unicorn Preservation Society.
With the ship recently celebrating her 201st birthday, the public are being invited to continue their support by joining Shipmates, HMS Unicorn’s new membership community, which offers unlimited free visits, discounts, and the opportunity to be part of the ship’s remarkable ongoing journey.
To learn more, donate, or join Shipmates, visit www.hmsunicorn.org.uk
