Full Breakdown
Lincoln Council Opposes Student Housing Conversion of Nightclub
3/18/2026, 2:38:11 AM
Proposed Conversion Plans
The City of Lincoln Council is opposing plans to convert the Level nightclub, formerly known as Ritzy's and Pulse, into student accommodation. Submitted by JSO Holdings Ltd in December, the proposal aims to transform the venue into housing for 79 students, alongside enhanced Creative College facilities on the ground floor. The project would involve adding two extra storeys to the existing structure on Silver Street, with accommodation designed as 15 flats featuring shared living areas and kitchens.
Council's Position on Housing Needs
Michelle Hoyles, the council's housing strategy manager, has articulated strong opposition to the increase in student housing, deeming it "unacceptable." She emphasized the pressing need for family homes instead, citing a significant oversupply of student accommodation in Lincoln. According to the council, there are currently at least 800 unused student beds in the area, with several purpose-built student housing facilities operating well below capacity. Hoyles noted that "multiple buildings containing purpose-built student accommodation developed in recent years are substantially under-occupied," with at least two buildings completely unoccupied.
Rationale Behind the Objection
The council's objection is grounded in the assertion that Lincoln faces an under-supply of housing for the general population, particularly for private, social, and affordable rentals. Planning documents for the nightclub conversion acknowledged a decline in event demand at the venue, which now primarily hosts weekend events. The proposal also includes relocating the Access Creative College, which trains young adults in music, media, games, and computing, from the top floor to the ground floor.
Official Statements & Responses
The City of Lincoln Council has expressed that the proposed change of use would not adequately address the housing needs of the community. Hoyles stated, "Lincoln currently has a substantial over-provision of student accommodation," reinforcing the council's stance that the focus should shift towards providing homes for families rather than students.
What's Next
The plans for the Level nightclub conversion will undergo further scrutiny by the City of Lincoln Council in the near future. The council's decision will likely reflect the ongoing debate over the balance between student housing and the need for family accommodations in the city.
Verbatim Quotes
“currently has a substantial over-provision of student accommodation” — Michelle Hoyles, Housing Strategy Manager, City of Lincoln Council
“There are multiple buildings containing purpose-built student accommodation developed in recent years that are substantially under-occupied.” — Michelle Hoyles, Housing Strategy Manager, City of Lincoln Council
