Plans to build an £8.5m performing arts complex in Lincoln have moved a step closer, following a £1.5m grant from Arts Council England.

The grant is the largest ever given to the city and was secured after three years of planning.

The Lincoln Centre will include two cinemas and a raked auditorium, capable of hosting live concerts, theatre, dance and exhibitions.

A steering group for the project, which includes the University of Lincoln, Lincoln City Council and the Arts Council, is now looking for match funding to ensure the future of the scheme.

Phil Cosker, spokesperson for the project, said: “If we can put the rest of the funding in place, the city will have an art venue to be proud of by 2007.”

Situated on the Brayford Pool, adjacent to the Lincoln School of Architecture, the centre would be leased to an independent trust.

Professor David Chiddick, vice-chancellor of the university, said: “Our vision is to create a spectacular new facility which will be accessible to members of the public as well as to the university community.”

Rick Mather, whose previous works include the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, London, has been commissioned to design the centre. Details: www.lincoln.ac.uk