Greyfriars project taking shape
The reopening of Lincoln’s historic Greyfriars will be a step closer following vital repairs to the building’s vaulted ceiling.
Dating from the early 13th century Greyfriars is believed to be one of the earliest surviving Franciscan buildings in Western Europe and is one of Lincoln’s most historically significant Grade I listed sites.
Formerly the city’s main museum, Greyfriars was closed in 2001, but following its extensive £3m restoration it will become a venue and community space.
The project is being carried out by Heritage Lincolnshire in partnership with City of Lincoln Council with progress to date including a new roof and guttering; extensive masonry and window repairs and the Victorian extension has now been completed, while a new retaining wall and steps leading to the library are in place.
The new extension, to provide full accessibility between floors and changing places facility (pictured below) is taking shape, with steelwork for the new lobby installed, bronze cladding being fitted, and the steel roof now in place.
Inside the building conservation work continues within the medieval undercroft, which has been made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and specialist stonemasons have been carrying out detailed repairs to the vaulted ceiling, a central feature of the site.
Greyfriars is recognised as one of the city’s most important heritage assets, with its remarkable medieval architecture forming a key part of its national significance.
Cllr Josh Wells, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council, said: “Greyfriars is one of Lincoln’s most treasured historic buildings, and safeguarding its future is incredibly important to us.
"The support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund allows us to carry out essential structural repairs and protect the building’s medieval undercroft for generations to come.
"We are deeply grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and to every National Lottery player for making this possible. Their support helps ensure that Greyfriars can be restored to the highest standards and brought back into meaningful community use.”
Tracy Stringfellow, Chief Executive of Heritage Lincolnshire, added: “Greyfriars is an extraordinary building of international significance.
“We are excited to share the next stage of the project and look forward to welcoming visitors to experience the building’s history, beauty, and new community role.”
