Lincoln has entered a vibrant new chapter for its creative sector with the grand opening of the Barbican Creative Hub, a dedicated and purpose-built centre for artistic excellence, commercial innovation and entrepreneurial enterprise. This significant new facility is situated within the beautifully restored Grade II-listed former Barbican Hotel on St Mary’s Street, marking a major milestone for the city's cultural landscape.
A Landmark Partnership for Regeneration
This ambitious project is the culmination of a pioneering collaboration between several key institutions. The University of Lincoln, Lincolnshire Co-op, City of Lincoln Council and Lincolnshire County Council have joined forces to deliver the hub, with crucial financial backing from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, the Town Deal, Historic England and Arts Council England. This multi-agency support underscores the project's strategic importance to the region.
From Historic Building to Modern Creative Nexus
Originally constructed in 1867 as a gentlemen’s club, the Barbican building has a rich history, having later served as a hotel and restaurant before periods of decline. Its meticulous restoration has successfully preserved the historic architectural character while ingeniously integrating contemporary facilities. The interior now boasts modern Creatives in Residence studios, adaptable coworking spaces, versatile event venues, advanced technology suites and collaborative breakout areas, all designed to stimulate partnership and groundbreaking ideas.
A Comprehensive Suite of Creative Facilities
The Hub provides a fully integrated and connected range of resources tailored for the creative community. These include dedicated spaces for exhibitions, live performances, podcast production, academic research and studio-based artistic practice. Furthermore, it will host a dynamic programme of workshops, expert talks and professional skills development opportunities, aimed at empowering local artists, emerging start-ups and the wider creative economy in Lincoln and Greater Lincolnshire.
Launch Event Celebrates Transformation
The official launch event, held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, was a celebratory gathering that united civic leaders, local creative professionals and community partners. The occasion marked the building's remarkable transformation into a collaborative engine for the area's cultural future.
Ben Anderson, creative and executive director at Lincoln Arts Centre, emphasised the Hub's central role. "It creates a shared home for the creative industries, providing a physical heart for our sector," he stated.
Professor Neal Juster, vice chancellor of the University of Lincoln, described the space as a vital platform. "This is about economic and social renewal—a place where people from all backgrounds can belong, connect, and truly thrive," he explained.
Leadership Praise for Partnership and Impact
Alison Hands, CEO of Lincolnshire Co-op, commended the collaborative effort behind the refurbishment. She highlighted the dual benefits for the local economy and the enhancement of the city's historic streetscape.
City of Lincoln Council Leader Naomi Tweddle also spoke, focusing on the careful balance achieved in the project. "The restoration honours the building's important heritage while providing essential, modern support for Lincoln's wealth of creative talent," she said.
A Model for Future Regeneration
The Barbican Creative Hub is already being hailed as a exemplary model for place-based urban regeneration. It demonstrates powerfully how heritage conservation, strategic partnership and creative energy can combine to attract skilled talent, foster new business growth and revitalise a city centre. As the hub becomes fully operational, it is poised to serve as both a steadfast community anchor and a national exemplar for innovative cultural development.
