Plans for a new feature at the historic White Hart Hotel in Lincoln have been announced after previous proposals for a rooftop terrace were turned down. The hotel’s owner, Andrew Long, expressed his disappointment at the setbacks but is now shifting his focus to creating a fourth-floor ‘sky lounge’ that promises stunning views of Lincoln Cathedral and the surrounding area. This news was reported by Lincolnshire Live.
The original applications for the rooftop terrace aimed to provide a unique panoramic view of not just the Cathedral, but also Lincoln Castle and the picturesque Bailgate. However, both applications were refused, and appeals were rejected due to concerns that the terrace would disrupt the historic views of the Cathedral.
Despite these challenges, Long remains optimistic about the new sky lounge concept. He shared his passion for enhancing the hotel and the city’s rich history, stating, "I’ve spent 40 years dealing with difficult planning applications in sensitive locations, so I went into it knowing it wouldn’t be straightforward. I was passionate about doing the right thing for Lincoln and the White Hart, and enhancing 700 years of history."
The proposed sky lounge will feature Juliet balconies that overlook the city, providing a different but still impressive vantage point. Long noted that the City of Lincoln planners did not raise any concerns about this aspect of the previous plans. If approved, he hopes the lounge could be open by late 2026.
Long envisions the sky lounge as a versatile space that could accommodate private bookings, including civic events and business delegations. He believes it will showcase Lincoln’s world-class assets, stating, "The city has world-class assets which we should showcase for the benefit of all."
At a planning meeting in 2025, the idea of the rooftop terrace faced opposition from councillors who sided with heritage bodies concerned about the potential impact on the historic space. Councillor Martin Christopher expressed worries about the noise and disruption that could arise from having a gathering of 60 people above the tranquil setting of the Cathedral at night.
As the city moves forward with these new plans, local residents will undoubtedly be eager to see how the sky lounge develops and what it will bring to Lincoln’s vibrant hospitality scene.
What are your thoughts on the new sky lounge idea? Do you think it will enhance Lincoln's appeal or detract from its historic charm?