An exciting project for everyone
These are exciting times for Woodbridge Riverside Trust and for all those set to benefit from the bold vision of the Whisstocks initiative. The transformation of the derelict Whisstocks Boatyard site into a dynamic, new community facility is well underway.
This is a new era. The land gifted to Woodbridge Town Council by the developer gives the people of Woodbridge a spectacular community space, alongside the magnificent Longshed and a purpose-built Museum for everyone to use. Forever.
Our vision
Our vision is to secure long term benefit for the community through enabling the sheer enjoyment of our outstanding maritime heritage and riverside environment, embracing learning, training and skills development.
We aim:
- To secure long term enjoyment of our maritime history and riverside
- To provide opportunities for education, training and maritime skills development for everyone.
- To keep Woodbridge’s waterfront an attractive and interesting destination
- To forge maritime heritage links between Woodbridge, Sutton Hoo, the UK and beyond
- To support the project to construct a full-scale replica of the Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon burial ship
One of our first actions was to set up our sister charity, the Sutton Hoo Ship’s Company to take responsibility for planning and enabling research and funding of the construction of the world’s first full size working replica of the Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon ship, which dates from c.624AD. This is a project of international significance, which will draw attention to Woodbridge from all over the globe.
Alongside the ship, educational and training opportunities for anyone interested in maritime history will be developed, based not just on Anglo-Saxon times but the rich boatbuilding history of the river Deben that can be traced back over centuries.
Above all, we want to see created, with the help of everyone who wants to join in, a vibrant waterside space that is fun, dynamic, and a celebration of Woodbridge’s maritime soul.