Case Study: Reimagining Greyfriars: How accessibility measures plan to strengthen community cohesion in Lincoln

What is this case study about?

This case study explores the Reimagining Greyfriars project in Lincoln, which focuses on accessibility improvements, both physical and interpretive, to reopen a medieval landmark and foster community cohesion. It demonstrates how inclusive design can reconnect local people with heritage and create a sense of shared ownership.

Background

Greyfriars is a Grade I listed scheduled monument medieval friary in Lincoln, one of the city’s most significant historic buildings. Despite its architectural importance, Greyfriars had been closed for decades. Its lack of accessibility and limited interpretation meant it was disconnected from the local community and underused as a cultural resource.

The project aims to transform Greyfriars into a space that is physically accessible, socially inclusive, and culturally relevant.

This initiative is not simply about installing ramps and handrails. It is about creating a welcoming environment where people of all ages and abilities can engage with Lincoln’s heritage, learn, and participate in community life.

Who did they work with?

Historic England has worked in close partnership with Lincoln City Council and the Heritage Trust for Lincolnshire over many years to bring Greyfriars back into active use. As both a scheduled monument and a Grade I listed building, it is highly protected; however, having stood empty for some years, it had begun to fall into decline without a sustainable function.

Working collaboratively with the project architects, Another Kind, and with the generous support of the funders listed at greyfriarslincoln.com/, we have supported the delivery of innovative and inclusive access solutions.

These enhancements open up the building for everyone and support a strong mix of revenue-generating and other uses, carefully conserving the significance of this exceptional Franciscan building for people to appreciate up close.

Aims of the project

• Remove physical and interpretive barriers to access
• Increase local use and diversify audiences
• Provide safe, legible circulation routes and inclusive interpretation
• Create opportunities for community involvement through volunteering and events
• Position Greyfriars as a hub for heritage learning and social connection

What happened?

The first step was a comprehensive access audit, considering both the building’s historic fabric and the proposed visitor journey. This audit informed a series of interventions designed to make Greyfriars welcoming and usable for everyone.

Digital access and pre-visit planning

One innovative feature is the use of Matterport 3D modelling technology. This will allow potential visitors to explore Greyfriars virtually before their visit, helping them assess accessibility and plan their experience.

The model will include interactive “hotspots” providing information on light levels, uneven surfaces, and audio descriptions. This technology will also support virtual exhibitions and tours, extending Greyfriars’ reach to those unable to visit in person.

Physical improvements

The building will feature step-free routes, improved entrances, and tactile and visual interpretation. Interpretation will be designed to be clear, inclusive, and multi-sensory, incorporating large-print guides and audio options.

Community engagement

The project recognises that physical improvements alone do not guarantee inclusion. Engagement activities such as volunteering opportunities, co-curated exhibitions, and opening events will help sustain community involvement beyond the capital works.

Programming will be informed by data on visitor demographics and interests, ensuring that Greyfriars remains relevant to local people.

Future plans

Greyfriars is set to reopen in 2027, marking a new chapter in Lincoln’s heritage story. By prioritising accessibility and inclusion, the project aims to:

• Strengthen community cohesion by creating a shared space for learning and social interaction
• Diversify audiences, attracting people who previously faced barriers to heritage engagement
• Position Greyfriars as a model for inclusive heritage practice, demonstrating how historic buildings can be adapted without compromising their significance

Lessons learnt