The ongoing restoration of Greyfriars, one of Lincoln’s most historically
Externally, visible changes are largely complete comprising new roof and guttering together with extensive masonry and window repairs. 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, is taking shape, with steelwork for the new lobby installed, bronze cladding being fitted, and the steel roof now in place.
Inside the building, careful conservation work continues within the medieval undercroft, which has been made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
As part of the next step, specialist stonemasons have been carrying out detailed repairs to the vaulted ceiling, a central feature of the site.
One of the ceiling’s ribs and its associated spandrels in the north-west corner has now been completed, with work ongoing on the second.
As with many historic restoration projects, ongoing works have required a responsive approach to ensure the long-term stability of the building is protected.
This includes addressing structural elements within the undercroft as they are uncovered, ensuring Greyfriars is conserved to the highest standards.
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.
Once complete, the project will bring the building back into use as a revitalised heritage and community space, hosting events, exhibitions, educational programmes and wider public activity.
The aim is to create an accessible and welcoming environment that allows more people to experience the building’s history and contribute to its future.
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, said: “Greyfriars is an extraordinary building of international significance, and we are proud to be working in partnership with the City of Lincoln Council.
“Funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund brings us closer to reopening this remarkable space for the public. 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.”
