Barbican Creative Hub officially launched
The partners behind the Barbican Creative Hub officially launched the project this week.
Housed in the former Barbican Hotel on St Mary’s Street, the hub is described as a ‘purpose-built space for creative talent, innovation and enterprise at the heart of the city’.
The revamp of the Grade II listed building was the result of the partnership between the University of Lincoln, Lincolnshire Co-op, City of Lincoln Council, and Lincolnshire County Council, made possible with investment from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, the Town Deal, Historic England, and Arts Council England.
Originally constructed in 1867 as a gentlemen’s club, the building has seen many incarnations, including a hotel and restaurant, before falling into disrepair. Its restoration honours the historic architecture while creating Creatives in Residence studios, a flexible coworking space, creative office studios, event spaces, tech suites and a breakout area designed to foster collaboration, inclusion and growth. It has been operational for some months before the launch and a director for the venue was appointed a year ago.
The hub is designed as a connected suite of creative spaces with flexible venues for exhibitions, research, performance and events; specialist creative-technology facilities; and areas for podcasting, collaboration and studio-based practice for creatives in residence and start-ups.
Professor Neal Juster, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lincoln, said: “This is a proud moment for Lincoln. The Barbican Creative Hub brings together the region’s talent, ambition and civic spirit in one extraordinary place. It’s a space where creativity can drive economic and social renewal, and where people from all backgrounds can belong, connect and thrive.”
Naomi Tweddle, Town Deal board member and City of Lincoln Council Leader said; "It's incredible to see the recent transformations the Barbican has undergone. Located in the heart of the city centre, the building has a rich history and many stories to tell, which is why it's so important that the refurbishment has been handled with great care and consideration for its heritage.
"With support from the Be Lincoln Town Deal, we have been able to give the iconic building a much-needed new lease of life, supporting the city's creative talent. We hope that both local creators and the public will be able to enjoy everything the Barbican Hub has to offer."
Representatives of the collaborating organisations are pictured at the launch of the Barbican Creative Hub on Thursday.
