JSO Holdings has successfully obtained planning permission from the City of Lincoln Council for its ambitious project, The Glaze Yard, which will serve as new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). This innovative scheme includes a rooftop extension and a strategic relocation of Access Creative College from the top storey to the ground floor. Initially, the applicant proposed 79 apartments with the addition of two storeys; however, this plan has been revised down to 66 apartments.
The Community Response
Rebecca Longbottom, a councillor, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is a fantastic scheme. The building was starting to look a bit tatty, so it’s good to see it brought back into use.” The former Level nightclub had been closed for several years prior to this regeneration initiative. Councillor Lucinda Preston also commented on the importance of maintaining the building’s unique character, stating, “This is a remarkable building, and if the striking features are torn out, it could end up looking like many others, and very generic. I support the change of use – the night-time economy has moved away from that part of the city centre – but really want to see the exterior preserved.”
Preserving History While Innovating
Ben Rayner, representing JSO Holdings, highlighted the significance of preserving the historical aspects of the building while revitalising a previously closed-off area of the city centre. He articulated a common desire within the community, saying, “to reuse and improve rather than demolish.” The relocation of the college to the ground floor aims to make creativity a visible presence in the area, instead of keeping it hidden away. However, concerns arose from council housing officers regarding the existing overcapacity in student accommodation, with over a hundred units already vacant.
In response, JSO Holdings proposed a potential solution: if demand for student accommodation does not meet expectations, the vacant units could be converted into traditional apartments. Rayner emphasised the positive impact, stating, “This is an important building which everybody knows. It will take the emphasis away from students in family homes and put them in modern accommodation instead.” The developer confirmed that external modifications would be minimal, with no plans for significant rebuilding or reskinning of the existing structure.
Moving Forward
Ultimately, the committee voted unanimously in favour of the application, allowing The Glaze Yard PBSA scheme to proceed. This approval not only signals a commitment to enhancing student accommodation in Lincoln but also underscores the importance of integrating modern facilities within historic contexts, ensuring that the character of the area is both preserved and revitalised.