Lincoln Cathedral bid for £12m transformation

Lincoln Cathedral has revealed ambitious restoration plans to improve visitor facilities at the medieval city landmark.

Dubbed Lincoln Cathedral Connected, the plans propose to complete restoration of the iconic West Front, finishing work started over 20 years ago.

A larger cafe, shop and a new interpretation centre to display some of the cathedral’s treasures are also included in the plans.

Minster Yard, which was landscaped extensively in the Victorian period, would be transformed into a more welcoming, pedestrian precinct with a medieval character.

Plans include opening up the north green, which has been closed to the public for many decades, giving access to gardens and green spaces for visitors and residents to enjoy.

It is envisaged the project will complement work being carried out for Lincoln Castle Revealed.

The project will cost in the region of £12 million.

The Cathedral will appeal to the Heritage Lottery Fund in November seeking a development grant, submitting a more detailed proposal to them in 2015.

If funds are secured, work would commence in 2016 and take around five years to complete.

An overview of the Lincoln Cathedral plans. Click to enlarge.

Canon John Patrick, Subdean of Lincoln, said: “This project will significantly enhance not just the Cathedral but also, and just as importantly, Lincoln and the wider region.

“This ancient and historic city deserves to be better known, and one of the outcomes of Lincoln Cathedral Connected will be to attract greater numbers of visitors to our beautiful city.’

“The Cathedral is not blind to the challenges that it faces with this bid, but we have the ambition and ability to deliver what will prove to be a significant moment in our history, ensuring the cathedral remains a focus of pride for Lincolnshire.”

Dr Anne Irving, Project Manager for the bid, said: “We have worked closely with Globe Consulting and Lincolnshire County Council in devising Connected and are grateful to them and those who have contributed ideas to date.

“In the coming months we will be seeking feedback on our plans through the Historic Lincoln Partnership meetings and the Cathedral’s website and magazine, and will value any comments we receive.”