The plans to turn the Royal UK Navy’s aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious into a tourist attraction in Hull received support from MP Alan Johnson.
Johnson is leading the political campaign to preserve the HMS Illustrious as a heritage attraction, working with colleagues on the Humber and the Tyne. He is addressing the pressing need to secure the future of the historic vessel before the decommissioning process begins in earnest.
Lusty, the 22,000 tonne aircraft carrier, built in the late 1970s and early 1980s, is due to be retired after 32 years of service.
The UK Ministry of Defence in 2012 announced that once she is decommissioned Illustrious will be preserved for the nation.
According to the MP’s website, if the plans are a success, the vessel will be available “as an immersive, inspiring and exciting visitor experience for the people of Hull during 2017 and 2018.”