The cathedral dates from 1092

The Lincolnshire Assembly is compiling a document called Vision 2030 and wants the public to suggest goals which the area can aim to achieve by that date.

On top of universal themes like education and health, the assembly wants ideas specific to Lincolnshire.

It believes the city already "has a good start" on moves to secure global recognition for its history.

County council assistant chief executive Marcus Coleman, who is also an assembly member, said: "We have some great assets here, like the castle and cathedral, and it would just need a bit more work to really give us a chance.

"We know that this is a real gem but the rest of the world does not. With a little more investment and promotion we could have one of the top six weekend destinations in Britain."

Mr Coleman also said there was potential, through the university, for the county to become a centre for renewable energy.

Cultural importance

He added: "This is about the people of Lincolnshire taking charge of their future."

The assembly, a body made up of councillors, businessmen and community stakeholders, will discuss the document over the summer before asking for public suggestions in the autumn.

A World Heritage Site is a location recognised by the United Nations for its outstanding cultural or natural importance to the common heritage of mankind.