Wykeland keeps Freedom Festival spirit alive

A Hull-based property developer has renewed its support for the city’s annual flagship cultural festival.

Wykeland Group has extended its partnership with Hull’s Freedom Festival, committing as a Core Funder through to the event’s 20th anniversary in 2027. 

This enhanced partnership builds on Wykeland’s long-standing sponsorship since the festival’s launch in 2007, underscoring the company’s dedication to fostering arts and culture alongside physical and social regeneration in the region.

Its backing of Freedom Festival places Wykeland among the top-tier supporters, alongside Hull City Council and Arts Council England. 

The company also supports more than 40 cultural organisations, including the Fresh Ink writers’ festival, run with Hull’s Middle Child theatre company. 

Wykeland’s portfolio features Stage @TheDock in Hull’s Fruit Market, a key venue for festival performances.

Dominic Gibbons, managing director at Wykeland, which invests more than £100,000 annually into social, charitable and cultural projects in the region, said: “Freedom Festival has been a highlight of the region’s events calendar for approaching two decades.

“In that time, it has played a hugely important role in showcasing and celebrating Hull’s rich and varied cultural and arts scene, as well as bringing to the city inspirational and unforgettable performances and experiences.

“At Wykeland, we strive to make a positive impact which stretches far beyond our developments.

“Our continued support of the Freedom Festival reflects our passion for social and cultural regeneration alongside our continued investment in creating great places for people to live, work and play.”

The festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors, with 70,000 attending in 2024. 

It showcases nearly 200 artists and generates an estimated £1.8 million in economic impact for Hull.

Phil Hargreaves, festival director of Freedom Festival, added: “Having been a supporter of Freedom Festival since inception, it seems fitting to acknowledge our long-standing partnership with Wykeland by crediting them as a Core Funder, alongside Arts Council England and Hull City Council, for Freedom Festival Arts Trust (FFAT).

“The support we receive year on year is testament to their dedication to culture and supporting Hull in continuing to be a destination to work, live and play.”

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