Cambridge City Council is making significant progress on the Civic Quarter project, which aims to revitalise the Market Square, Corn Exchange, Guildhall and surrounding public spaces, ensuring these spaces meet the needs of a 21st-century city. Following approval at the Strategy and Resources Committee in November 2024, the council has reappointed the design team to advance the proposals through RIBA Stage 3, which includes public consultation in May and a Stage 3 report presented to Councillors in the Autumn. If approval is received, then a planning application will be submitted by the end of 2025.
As part of this process, the council continues to work closely with market traders, holding regular meetings to discuss key concerns such as stall designs, temporary relocation during works, and long-term market operations. There will be meetings of the Civic Quarter Liaison Group prior to public consultation; outcomes from the consultation and prior to the Stage 3 report going to committee.
Read the latest project news and our FAQs (updated 6 February 2025) to stay informed as we move forward with plans to enhance accessibility, improve sustainability, and create a vibrant civic hub for all.
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Cllr Simon Smith, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, said:
We are blessed with a number of treasured buildings and spaces in Cambridge that are at the heart of the city’s civic and cultural life.
Now, we have the opportunity to invest in them in a coordinated way to create a refreshed civic quarter that befits the city’s global status and attracts and serves many more people for years to come.
By thinking about the Guildhall, the Market Square and the Corn Exchange together, we can create a place that brings a new, exciting dimension to the city centre, attracting more people and boosting economic activity. Our consultation told us that people would like to see much more from the market square, in particular.
Councillor
Simon Smith
Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources