Caribbean-inspired bar and restaurant Turtle Bay to open on site of former Lincoln Central ‘butcher’s corridor’

Turtle Bay sign
Turtle Bay sign

City of Lincoln Council can confirm Turtle Bay will open its first Lincolnshire restaurant in the city as part of the revitalised Lincoln Central Market.

With the contract being officially signed today, City of Lincoln Council can confirm Turtle Bay will open its first Lincolnshire restaurant in the city as part of the revitalised Lincoln Central Market. 

Opening on the site of the former 'butcher’s corridor', the brand famous for delivering the flavours and spirit of the Caribbean, Turtle Bay is set to open its doors later this year, with the building officially handed over to the company and now ready to be fitted out. 

In June 2022, demolition works at Lincoln Central Market began to enable the construction of the new two-storey extension to the south of the building, accommodating the new restaurant with a roof terrace. 

The addition of Turtle Bay forms wider plans for the market, which is undergoing major refurbishment works made possible by £5.9 million funding from the Government's Be Lincoln Town Deal programme and a further £918,000 funding through Historic England's High Street Heritage Action Zone scheme. 

The major regeneration works, which are set for completion in Autumn 2023, will include: 

  • The opening up of the blind arches on the north and east elevations 

  • A new mezzanine floor and relocation of the existing butcher and fishmonger stalls into the main market hall under the mezzanine incorporating its own glazed entrance 

  • Replacement roofing and glazed lantern 

  • Demolition of the butcher’s corridor to the south of the building and the construction of a new two storey extension to accommodate a new restaurant with a roof terrace 

  • New heating and lighting in the building 

  • Freestanding stalls in the interior space of a contemporary, minimal design for local businesses to promote local produce and an area within the centre of the Market Hall to accommodate seating for the associated food outlets within the stalls.  

  • Unisex toilets including disabled and baby changing facilities 

Work will also be done to repave and enhance external areas in City Square and Sincil Street to encourage the evening economy, with space for outdoor dining by the waterway and events.   

With the ultimate blend of Caribbean charisma and vibrant flavours, Turtle Bay is set to become a huge contender for anyone wanting to celebrate any special occasion in town. From Caribbean-inspired dishes, to 2-4-1 cocktails and a not-to-be-missed bottomless brunch, the new restaurant will have something for everyone.  

Cllr Naomi Tweddle, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council said: “The revitalising of the Central Market is well underway and we’re excited to welcome Turtle Bay to the city.  

“The new restaurant hosts a large rooftop terrace which will be the perfect setting for diners to utilise.

“Not only will Turtle Bay be an asset to the city, but it will also create numerous jobs which will benefit local residents.” 

Maria Clayton, Contract Manager at City of Lincoln Council added: “Alongside our contractors, Lindum Construction, we have been working with Turtle Bay’s team to finalise plans for the new unit and look forward to welcoming them to commence their fit-out works.” 

Libby Andrews, Marketing Director, Turtle Bay said: “We are excited to open our doors in the Cornhill Quarter later this year, and we look forward to delivering our Caribbean Good Times to the people of Lincoln,” said Libby Andrews, Marketing Director, Turtle Bay.  

Liam Scully, Chair of the Be Lincoln Town Deal Board added:

“We are excited to welcome Turtle Bay into the newly refurbished Central Market building.  

“The Be Lincoln Town Deal Board are proud to support the creation of this anchor destination with the Cornhill Quarter, which is emerging as a prime leisure and retail area in the city.” 

Published on June 1st 2023