The proposals are part of the council’s Civic Quarter project to reimagine the area consisting of the Guildhall, Corn Exchange, Market Square and surrounding public spaces, to protect the heritage assets and invest in them for the future.

The updated proposals have incorporated feedback from the public consultation held in the summer, market traders and market experts, heritage officers and the police. The proposals now include:

• An increase in the overall number of stalls being proposed to 94 – from the initial proposal of 91 – with a commitment that all current traders would be able to return 
• An increase in the number of permanent stalls to 36 – from the previous proposal of 27 – meaning traders who trade most often will benefit from new lockable stalls that are better designed than those currently in use on the market
• Information about which demountable stall structure will be taken forward for testing on the market, chosen based on feedback from traders on demountable stall options presented
• A smaller canopy which will now only cover a new seating area, which will be lockable out of hours, responding to feedback about antisocial behaviour in covered areas not being caught on CCTV
• A commitment to maintaining traders’ pitch fees at the pre-decant level for the first 12 months following the redevelopment of the market
• Retaining and refurbishing the existing fountain on the market, with the aspiration of making it fully functioning in the long-term – previously the proposal was to relocate the fountain
• Confirmation that toilets for traders will be situated in the basement to support traders, and that new underground bin facilities will be provided to significantly improve waste storage and collection processes

The update also includes a proposed new layout for the Market, which will be used as a starting point to invite feedback from traders at the next traders’ meetings, taking place on Wednesday 26 March.

In parallel, a draft business plan for Cambridge Market, developed by the council’s appointed market specialists Place Partnership, will be presented to traders for feedback at a subsequent traders’ meeting in May. 

Cllr Rosy Moore, Executive Councillor for Climate Action and Environment, said: “This is a big step forward in shaping our vision of a 21st century civic quarter with a modern, accessible, seven-day market. I am pleased we have been able to respond directly to feedback from the traders and other stakeholders, which has resulted in an increase in the number of permanent and demountable stalls we are proposing. The project team will continue dialogue with all stakeholders, as the plans evolve over the summer. 

“We will now move forward to testing the preferred demountable stall option, and continue to engage with the traders on the proposed layout and permanent stall design. It is our belief that the evolving proposals will meet the requirements of having a thriving, seven-day market, in a location that is safe and welcoming, at all times.

“We are looking forward to engaging with the wider community on the civic quarter project in the summer.”

To keep up to date with this project, please subscribe for updates at: cambridgecivicquarter.co.uk 

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The meeting held on Wednesday (19 February) was the first opportunity for traders to consider a number of potential demountable stalls which, when used alongside new permanent stalls, will enable the seven-day market to thrive while improving security and creating flexibility within the market square.  

Key updates

• Engaging with market traders: the project team heard initial reflections from more than 20 market traders on some options for potential demountable stalls. Five different tried and tested options from different manufacturers were presented at the meeting, and traders unable to attend are being invited to feedback online in the coming weeks. The stalls shown have been used at markets such as Keswick, Portobello Road, Rotherham and Alnwick, and once a shortlist is confirmed the stalls will be demonstrated to traders.  
• Stages of construction: The council has reassured traders that the market will continue to trade throughout any construction works, and traders will be able to return to the Market Square once the first stage of works, consisting of the refurbishment of the setts and the upgrade to electrical infrastructure, are complete.    
• Business plan for Cambridge Market: Place Partnership, a company specialising in markets, has been appointed to create a long-term business plan for Cambridge Market. The plan will support the council’s aspiration of having a modern, accessible, and seven-day market at the heart of a 21^st century civic quarter.    

Cllr Rosy Moore, Executive Councillor for Climate Action and Environment, said: “We are making good progress towards realising our vision for the Civic Quarter. The latest meeting with the traders was the first of several opportunities to discuss and test designs for demountable stalls on the market. We spoke to several traders at the meeting and over the coming months we will speak to as many as possible to get their feedback.   

“Every option shown at the meeting has already been successfully used at markets operated across the UK and Europe, and they have been tested in all types of conditions. We are confident that we can get to a position where the traders have the comfort that demountable stalls can be extremely robust and, when used alongside the new permanent stalls, will create a flexible space and help to reduce anti-social behaviour.  

“This conversation will be ongoing throughout the coming months, and there will be further opportunities for the traders, and the wider community to have their say.    

“The appointment of Place Partnership as our market specialists also takes us a step closer towards realising the vision of a 21^st century civic quarter with a modern, accessible, seven-day market.”  

At this stage, the construction process for a future market square redevelopment is envisaged in two phases:   

• Phase 1: This phase will focus on the setts and making the surface accessible to all. As the setts are lifted modern services will be installed, providing power to all market stall positions and improving the drainage network. Once this is completed, traders will be able to move back to the Market Square, if phase 2 does not progress for any reason.   
  
• Phase 2: This phase will deliver the remainder of the public realm improvements, through Peas Hill, Guildhall Street, Wheeler Street and Corn Exchange Street. The loop around the market will also be upgraded with an upgraded surface and planting. At this point the modular, pre-fabricated canopy will be craned in.  

A contractor for the project is in the process of being appointed, and all proposals are subject to the usual planning process.   

To keep up to date with this project, please visit the Civic Quarter project website and subscribe for updates. Or view the engagement report on the consultation platform.  The paper presented to the market traders can be viewed here.

21 February 2025

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The ambition of the civic quarter project is to ensure the city centre attractions are fit for a 21st century society and offer a focal point for the city that residents can be proud of. The heritage buildings will be progressed towards net zero and space for commercial occupiers in the Guildhall will reduce running costs and increase income to support frontline council services.

Across the civic quarter area, the proposals will also improve accessibility, biodiversity and water efficiency.

Key updates

• Design team reappointed: the design team led by Cartwright Pickard was re-appointed earlier this year to take the proposals through RIBA Stage 3 culminating in a planning submission, which is due in autumn 2025. The same team progressed the plans during 2024 through to approval at November’s Strategy and Resources Committee.
• Procuring a construction contractor: to support the project team to minimise disruption during the construction process, a construction contractor is currently being procured and should be appointed by mid-April. The early appointment of a contractor will ensure proposals submitted for planning are deliverable.
• Engaging with market traders: market traders will be directly impacted by the proposals, and the council is working closely with traders as plans progress, with regular meetings to discuss key topics including the design of the new demountable stalls, the timeline for any works on the market, and any temporary relocation during works to relay the setts and lay sub-surface infrastructure. The market will continue to trade throughout construction works, and the council will work with traders to find the best location for a temporary decant.

Cllr Simon Smith, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, said: “These are important next steps as we seek to secure the long-term viability of the Guildhall, Market and Corn Exchange.

“The appointment of a construction contractor will provide us with additional cost certainty, and it will allow us to have detailed discussions with stakeholders about the practicalities of delivering our proposals.

“This includes market traders who we know have concerns about any impact the works may have on their ability to trade during and after the works to modernise the market square. We remain committed to working together to achieve minimal impact on traders whilst we progress our ambition for a 21st century civic quarter with a modern, accessible, seven-day market.”

The stage 2 proposals for the Civic Quarter currently include:

• Opening up the Guildhall: with a shared ground floor lobby with improved natural lighting and a café for the public, council staff and commercial tenants; increasing the use of the civic halls; and creating space for a cultural attraction – with the Museum of Cambridge considering a potential relocation to the Guildhall. The council’s office spaces will be consolidated, moving staff from Mandela House into the Guildhall, with commercial office space being provided to support the council’s plan to generate income.
• For the Corn Exchange: the proposal is to replace the roof. In a later phase the proposals are to increase event capacity to 2,000; transform the Parson’s Court passageway next to the Corn Exchange into a pedestrianised breakout space with food and drink offerings; add lifts to ensure full accessibility; improve back of house, Audio Visual and temperature control systems; and progress towards net zero within the building’s heritage constraints, including introducing air source heat pumps and solar panels.
• For the Market Square: the proposals include introducing an accessible shared surface with refurbished historic setts, to promote and prioritise pedestrians. In a later phase the proposals are for water efficiency and renewable energy, a lightweight canopy for permanent stalls, and covered seating for the general public. The rest of the market will remain available for traders with demountable stalls providing flexible space for occasional events.

To keep up to date with this project, please visit the Civic Quarter project website and subscribe for updates. Or view the engagement report on the consultation platform.

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CAMBRIDGE City Council has published its proposals for the Cambridge’s civic quarter – an area consisting of the Guildhall, Corn Exchange, Market Square and surrounding public spaces in central Cambridge – following a summer engagement programme to hear what residents and visitors currently like, dislike, and would like to see in the area.

As custodian of these historic sites, the council needs to invest in their upkeep, and plans to do so in a way that will generate income and reduce operational costs as part of its wider plans to balance its budget.

The ambition is to ensure the city centre attractions are fit for a 21^st century society and offer a focal point for the city that residents can be proud of, while making the heritage buildings net zero and accessible and improving biodiversity, water efficiency and accessibility across the civic quarter area.

Proposal highlights

• Opening up the Guildhall. With a shared ground floor lobby with improved natural lighting and a café for the public, council staff and commercial tenants; increasing the use of the civic halls; and creating space for a cultural attraction – with the Museum of Cambridge considering a potential relocation to the Guildhall. The council’s office spaces will be consolidated, moving staff from Mandela House into the Guildhall, with commercial office space being provided on the upper floors to support the council’s plan to generate income
• For the Corn Exchange, the proposal is to increase event capacity to 2,000; transform the Parson’s Court passageway next to the Corn Exchange into a pedestrianised breakout space with food and drink offerings; add lifts to ensure full accessibility; improve back of house, Audio Visual and temperature control systems; and to get as close to net zero as possible within the building’s heritage constraints, including introducing air source heat pumps and solar panels
• For the Market Square, the proposals include introducing an accessible shared surface to promote and prioritise pedestrians; and a commitment to water efficiency and renewable energy. A lightweight canopy is also proposed to cover approximately half of the market, providing storage for permanent traders and offering covered seating for the general public. The other half would be available for additional trading during weekends and busier months, with demountable stalls, providing flexible space for occasional events. 

Cllr Simon Smith, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, said: “We are seeking to secure the long-term viability of the Guildhall, Market and Corn Exchange for heritage and environmental sustainability, with a range of public, commercial and cultural uses.

“The largest investment will be for the Guildhall so we can reduce the council’s operating costs and generate commercial income to protect frontline services. 

“The council wishes to thank those residents, market traders and organisations who responded to the consultation on the initial proposals. Your comments have informed the brief for the detailed design stage for which a recommendation to proceed will be considered by councillors later this month.”

This project is still at an early stage, and councillors are grateful to all those who contributed to these designs – which are indicative and will continue to evolve depending on feedback from the public, market traders, council staff and local stakeholders, and financial constraints.

The updated proposals have been published ahead of being discussed by councillors at the council’s Strategy and Resources Scrutiny Committee on 21 November 2024. If the proposals are approved at the Committee on 21 November:

• a procurement process will take place for the appointment of a contractor by spring 2025
• design work would continue with a planning submission submitted in late summer 2025 following a second public consultation in spring 2025
• a capital budget of £55 million would be allocated to support the Civic Quarter project.

Funding

The indicative investment budget to refurbish the Guildhall is estimated at £41 million. The current net running cost of the Guildhall and Mandela House is around £2.4 million. This investment is estimated to generate a net saving for the council of £1 million per annum, after the cost of capital.  

The cost to redevelop the Corn Exchange, along with Parson’s Court, is estimated at £22 million. An initial budget of £4.5 million, if approved on 21 November, would enable completion of a full roof replacement and installation of solar panels on the roof. A new business plan for the Corn Exchange is proposed to consider additional funding for further phases of work.

The cost to make the proposed improvements to the market and surrounding public spaces is estimated at £12.6 million. If approved on 21 November, an initial capital investment of £3 million would support resurfacing works. A new business plan for the Market Square is proposed to consider further phases of work, including further funding opportunities, a Balance of Trade policy, and a management approach for a fully redeveloped market. 

From the £55 million proposed capital budget, £3.6 million is likely to be used for planning and £2.9 million on other project costs.

Projects of this size can take time to plan and deliver, and with multiple sites being considered it may be a number of years before all the works could be delivered. There is much more work to be done through design and planning before any work would start on site. Construction work is not expected to commence before October 2026 at the earliest.

Market traders are key stakeholders for this project, and the council has been engaging with traders on a regular basis throughout this project, including recent discussion about their preferred options for relocating temporarily, if required, for work to start on the Market Square. The majority of respondents (88%) supported the principle of remaining close to the Market Square, with little support expressed for an off-site solution. Therefore, this option would be pursued in the next stage of design, with further work to be done to develop a support package for market traders to ensure any temporary decant from the Market Square is as smooth as possible.

To keep up to date with this project, please visit the Civic Quarter project website and subscribe for updates. Or view the engagement report on the consultation platform.

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As custodian of these historic sites the council needs to invest in their upkeep in a way that will generate income and reduce operational costs, as part of its wider plans to make long-term budget savings.

As set out in the engagement programme, the council’s ambition is to: make the Guildhall a net zero carbon building where people can participate in local democracy; improve accessibility across the sites; upgrade the Corn Exchange with better acoustics and AV systems, more food and drink options, and energy efficiency upgrades; and keep the seven day market while creating more space for people and events.

This project is still at an early stage, with much more to be done through design and planning before any work would start on site. Some funding has been set aside to support the Civic Quarter project, but further decisions about funding would need to be taken by councillors once the updated proposals have been provided by the Cartwright Pickard-led development consultancy team. 

Cllr Simon Smith, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, said: “Investing in these historic sites is an important thing to do, but it also gives us an opportunity to reduce our overheads and generate income. We are facing the same budget pressures as councils up and down the country, so we are taking a long-term view and ensuring we can balance our budget while also looking after these local landmarks.

“We have been eager to hear from local people how these spaces could be improved and I’m delighted with the level of engagement over the summer. Thank you to the 900+ respondents who shared your thoughts with us, making this the highest number of responses received since launching our new online engagement platform. 

“These comments have been really encouraging, broadly endorsing our ambitions while also providing valuable insights and suggestions which can be carried forward into the detailed design stage.

“We are committed to working closely with market traders to ensure a prosperous future for the seven-day market. Thanks to all traders who have engaged with us. Please be assured that we want to continue to involve you on ways to limit the impact any future working could have on your businesses.”

Following the engagement programme the design team is continuing to refine their ideas, ahead of providing updated proposals on 11 November for councillors to consider. If the proposals published on 11 November are approved at Strategy and Resources Scrutiny Committee on 21 November, further development work would progress beyond RIBA stage 2 in 2025, with comprehensive community engagement taking place throughout the project.

Projects of this size can take time to plan and deliver, and with multiple sites being considered it may be a number of years before all the works can be delivered.

Feedback highlights

Market Square

Feedback from the public and market traders included a desire to improve security and deter anti-social behaviour. There was also a desire for enhanced biodiversity and sustainability, with suggestions including solar panels, green spaces to sit and eat, trees to provide shade, and moss roofs.

Another key theme was accessibility, with wheelchair users highlighting the accessibility issues created by the cobblestones. And while some market traders highlighted issues with cleaning and maintaining the cobbles, other market traders and heritage groups showed a preference for retaining the historic character of the existing cobblestones.

There was also support for and against around the idea of building a permanent structure and / or including demountable stalls. In addition, concerns were expressed over the potential impacts on traders of any future work, with traders keen to hear more about how this would be managed. The council is engaging with market traders on their preferred location and implementation process if works are approved.

Corn Exchange

Feedback identified a desire for better acoustics for speaking and music events. There were criticisms about inaccessible and uncomfortable seating, and request for ground-floor toilets and better access for those with a disability. The entrance has been described as dark and unwelcoming, and suggestions were received about creating a more transparent entrance design to make it feel more inviting.

Guildhall

Suggestions from the public, and council staff, encouraged community uses ranging from libraries and cafes, to free seating areas, and affordable spaces for non-profit and community groups to hire.  There was positive and negative feedback regarding the hotel proposal, with some respondents showing support for a rooftop pavilion, especially if it was open to all and not just hotel guests.There were suggestions that the Guildhall could be a more open-plan design with better visibility from the outside, less formal interiors and more comfortable seating, with modern and sustainable features such as solar panels being a recurring theme.

Public spaces

Feedback identified a desire for an overarching transport strategy. Pedestrianisation with limited vehicular access in public areas, including bicycles and delivery mopeds, was mentioned, and improvements to the cycle route around the Corn Exchange were proposed. Other suggestions included cycling infrastructure such as bike parking, a new cycle hub, improved roads, and restrictions on mopeds. There were also calls for integrating sustainable and environmentally friendly features across the civic quarter area to align with the council’s carbon reduction goals. Introduction of features such as greenery and reuse of materials was also popular.

The feedback was first shared at two events held on Wednesday 9 October – the Civic Quarter Liaison Group and a meeting with Cambridge Market traders.

To keep up to date with this project, please visit the Civic Quarter project website and subscribe for updates: cambridgecivicquarter.co.uk. Or view the engagement report on the consultation platform:  engage.cambridge.gov.uk/en-GB/projects/cambridge-civic-quarter 

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Earlier this year the council appointed a development consultancy team, led by award-winning architects Cartwright Pickard, to lead this once-in-a-century opportunity to reimagine the area in central Cambridge to create a new civic quarter for the city.

The project is at an early design stage and relies on hearing what people currently like about these three historic sites and the public spaces in between; and how they could be improved. The engagement programme runs until Sunday 28 July.

The aim of the project is to create designs for the new civic quarter that will:
• create a focal point in the centre of Cambridge that local people can be proud of and which lives up to the city’s reputation as a centre of excellence and cultural significance
• attract residents and visitors to spend more time in the Market Square, Corn Exchange, and city centre shops, restaurants and bars

• build on the agreed vision for the Market Square to make it a more accessible, attractive, welcoming, exciting and safe place to visit, shop and gather
• make the Corn Exchange a more modern and appealing venue with updated facilities, while exploring new commercial opportunities and reducing operational costs
• conserve the Grade II listed Guildhall as a net zero carbon building to save running costs, with a welcoming environment for the public, and fit-for-future working spaces for council uses; while creating new spaces for commercial occupiers in order to increase the council’s income to support frontline council services

Highlights of the proposals
• Making the Guildhall a more accessible hub for local democracy, with new work spaces and customer services centre for the council, while providing commercial space such as a hotel and rooftop pavilion
• Upgrading the Corn Exchange with better acoustics and AV systems, more food and drink options, energy efficiency upgrades, and making it more accessible
• Keeping the seven day market on the Market Square while creating more space for people and events.

Get involved
• Online: visit cambridge.gov.uk/ccq to find out more about the project and to respond to the survey online
• Community workshops: register online (cambridge.gov.uk/ccq) to attend a community workshop:
1. Cambridge Central Library on Wednesday 26 June, 4 to 6pm; or Wednesday 3 July, 4 to 6pm

2. Corn Exchange on Saturday 6 July, 10.30am to 12.30pm; or Saturday 13 July, 10.30am to 12.30pm

• Popup events: Popup events will appear on the Market Square and at a variety of roadshow events to chat to passersby
•Stakeholder workshops: A number of workshops will focus on specific themes, such as requirements for market traders and the business community, sustainability, and culture.

Email info@cambridgecivicquarter.co.uk to find out more.

Ben Binns, Cambridge City Council’s Development Assistant Director, said: “We are right at the start of this process and while we have lots of exciting ideas, we need local people to tell us how we can make these spaces better for everyone to enjoy.

“These historic sites need care and attention, so while we are investing in preserving them, we also want to make sure we’re making them fit for a 21st century society. That includes opening up the spaces to make sure they are welcoming and accessible, targeting net zero operational carbon and water neutrality, increasing nature across the site, and creating more space for people.

“It’s a great time to be doing this work as 2024 marks the 800th anniversary of the Guildhall site as a seat of local government, and 2025 will mark the 150th anniversary of the Corn Exchange. Please make sure to come along to one of our engagement events, chat to us at one of our pop ups, or find out more and respond to the survey online – we need to hear from as many people as possible to make a success of this once-in-a-century opportunity.”

Following the engagement programme and completion of the RIBA stage 2 design work, the development proposals will be considered by councillors in November 2024. If approved, further development work would progress beyond RIBA stage 2, with comprehensive community engagement taking place throughout the project.

Find out more about the proposals and take the survey: cambridge.gov.uk/ccq

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The appointment followed a comprehensive tender process which invited teams to submit proposals to develop a RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Stage 2 design for the area that would:

• Create a focal point in the centre of Cambridge that local people can be proud of and which lives up to the city’s world-renowned reputation as a centre of excellence and cultural significance
• Attract residents and visitors to spend more time in the market, the Corn Exchange, and city centre shops, restaurants and bars
• Build on the agreed vision for the Market Square, to make it a more accessible, attractive, welcoming, exciting and safe place to visit, shop and gather during the day and into the evening
• Make the Corn Exchange a more modern and appealing venue with updated facilities, while exploring new commercial opportunities and reducing operational costs
• Conserve the Grade II listed Guildhall as a net zero-carbon building to save running costs, with a welcoming environment for the public, and fit-for-future working spaces for council uses; while creating new spaces for commercial occupiers in order to increase the council’s income from the building to support running frontline council services.

Cartwright Pickard, alongside other members of the consultancy team, have a strong track record in working on civic and heritage buildings. They have designed re-purposed listed town hall buildings for Bromley and Lambeth. The Lambeth project has won several awards and the Bromley project is shortlisted for a RIBA award. Cartwright Pickard are renowned specialists in retrofit and will work closely with partners Marick Real Estate to deliver long-term commercial viability of the civic quarter.

Having now been appointed by the council, the consortium, which includes several Cambridge based organisations, will develop concept designs (up to RIBA Stage 2) through a process of comprehensive community and stakeholder engagement.

Throughout the design phase there will be ongoing opportunities for individuals as well as community and stakeholder groups to provide feedback into the designs. Specialist community engagement consultancy ECF has been appointed as part of the team to run that process.

Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the project is invited to attend the Cambridge Civic Quarter Liaison Group meeting on Wednesday 15 May, at 4pm-5pm, in person at the Guildhall. You can also sign up to receive project updates by email, visit cambridgecivicquarter.co.uk.

Following the engagement programme and completion of the RIBA stage 2 design work, the development proposals will be considered by councillors in November 2024. If approved, further development work would progress beyond RIBA stage 2, with comprehensive community engagement taking place throughout the project.

Cllr Simon Smith, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, said: “The Cartwright Pickard-led team have made a fantastic start already. They have committed to a full programme of engagement with local people – those who currently use the Market and council buildings and those who don’t often visit this part of town – and key stakeholders including market traders and other local businesses. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and it’s vital to us that the plans for the new quarter can be drawn up based on what we hear from local people.

“The Guildhall site has been a seat of local government since 1224, so it’s fitting that we’re able to start this exciting project during this 800th anniversary year. I’d encourage anyone with an interest in what happens at the Guildhall, Corn Exchange and Market to join us at the event on the 15th, or to sign up for email updates. Make sure you take the opportunity to share your ideas and have your say on the new quarter at the heart of the city centre.”

The development consultancy team comprises:

• Cartwright Pickard: Renowned for their innovative approach to architecture, Cartwright Pickard has led transformative projects such as Lambeth Town Hall and Bromley Town Hall. Their leadership promises to blend decades of experience with forward-thinking design solutions to reimagine Cambridge’s Civic Quarter.
• Marick Real Estate Ltd: Marick Real Estate Ltd brings extensive experience in real estate development, project management, and financial analysis. Their proven track record in delivering commercial success will be invaluable in ensuring the long-term viability and sustainability of the redevelopment.
• ECF: ECF is a leading communications and engagement consultancy specialising in built environment projects. ECF will leverage decades of experience and community knowledge of the Cambridge area through its work with LandsecU+I and TOWN on the Hartree project. It will work with local stakeholders and residents to deliver a collaborative and meaningful approach.
• LDA Design: LDA Design is a leading landscape design practice entrusted with some of the UK’s most important public and civic spaces, including Battersea Power Station. Their expertise in landscape and public realm design will enhance the attractiveness and accessibility of the revamped Civic Quarter.
• Carter Jonas: With a history dating back to 1855, Carter Jonas is a leading national property consultancy providing planning advice of the highest quality. Their Eastern planning team, based in Cambridge, will deliver expert guidance on navigating planning regulations and maximising the project’s potential.
• Max Fordham: Max Fordham is a pioneer in environmental building services engineering, specialising in sustainability and low-carbon design. Their innovative approach will ensure that the redevelopment aligns with ambitious sustainability goals, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious design.
• Conisbee: Conisbee is a highly successful structural and civil engineering consultancy with a strong local presence. Their expertise in engineering solutions will ensure the structural integrity and safety of the redeveloped buildings and public spaces.
• Turley, Cambridge Office: Turley is a multi-disciplinary consultancy specialising in heritage planning, providing invaluable expertise on heritage issues integral to the project. Their local knowledge and specialist advice will help preserve and celebrate Cambridge’s rich cultural heritage.
• KMC: KMC is a transport planning and infrastructure design consultancy deeply rooted in Cambridge. Their intimate knowledge of the city’s transportation networks will drive efforts to enhance accessibility and connectivity within the Civic Quarter.
• Theatreplan: Theatreplan is a specialist technical theatre design consultancy with a wealth of experience in creating exceptional performance spaces. Their expertise will ensure that the revamped Corn Exchange meets the highest standards for theatrical performance and audience experience.
• Arup: Arup is the largest fire engineering practice in the UK, bringing extensive technical experience and specialist engineers to ensure the safety and resilience of the redeveloped buildings.

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By investing in one scheme to make improvements to the two council-owned buildings, the market square, and the public realm that links them, the council will be able to:

• Create a focal point in the centre of Cambridge that local people can be proud of and which lives up to the city’s world-renowned reputation as a centre of excellence and cultural significance
• Attract residents and visitors to spend more time in the market, the Corn Exchange, and city centre shops, restaurants and bars 
• Build on the vision to make the Market Square a more accessible, attractive, welcoming, exciting and safe place to visit, shop and gather during the day and into the evening 
• Make the Corn Exchange a more modern and appealing venue with updated facilities; explore new commercial opportunities; and reduce operational costs
• Conserve the Grade II listed Guildhall as a zero-carbon building with a welcoming environment for the public, and fit-for-future working spaces for the council’s HQ and business occupiers, to save costs and increase income towards protecting frontline services.

The estimated contract value is £1,250,000, and the successful consortium will be required to produce commercial proposals and corresponding RIBA stage 2 design that meets the council’s core objectives for the project. 

Prior experience of commercialising and re-modelling Civic or Heritage buildings to current sustainability or net zero carbon design standards will be essential. A communications consultant will also be vital in ensuring stakeholder and resident engagement is comprehensive and effective throughout the process.

The deadline for tender submissions is 21 March 2024, with contract commencement estimated to be April 2024. Following completion of the RIBA stage 2 work, the development proposals will be considered by councillors in November 2024. If approved, further development work would progress beyond RIBA stage 2.

The procurement process launched on 9 February through the Proactis portal. Prospective bidders are invited to attend a bidders day including a presentation and guided tour to include the Market, Guildhall and Corn Exchange on Friday 16 February to learn about the buildings and the scope of the project. Contact civic.quarter@cambridge.gov.uk to register to attend the bidders day.

Cllr Simon Smith, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, said: “There is cross-party support to bring forward proposals and business cases for the Guildhall, Market Square and Corn Exchange to create a more attractive and vibrant heart to the city.  

“We are right at the start of this process, with no preconceived vision for the end result. So it’s vital we find the best of the best consultancy teams to lead this work for the city and ensure the voices of local people are heard and reflected in the design of the Civic Quarter.”

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Councillors agreed yesterday (29 January) at Strategy and Resources Scrutiny Committee to invite design and consultancy teams to bid to produce detailed options and feasibility reports for refurbishing the Guildhall, Market Square and Corn Exchange.

Cllr Simon Smith, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, said: “I welcome the cross-party consensus on the proposals, and commitments to engage with the public and stakeholders at key stages in the design process. 

“By working with the community and stakeholders, we will find out what people want from the Guildhall, market and Corn Exchange and spaces between, so they better serve people and businesses. By working together, we can make the city centre a place that everyone can be proud of.

“The most significant part of the work will inform an investment case for refurbishing the Guildhall. The initial feasibility study has shown cost savings and income from lettings could help to safeguard our frontline services in the future. 

“We will need any investment to make the Guildhall zero carbon, home to fit for the future offices for staff, a new customer service centre and revitalised halls for conferences events.

“The work will be commissioned in April and formal engagement events will commence in May with the final reports to be completed by October and presented to the Strategy and Resources Scrutiny Committee in November for decision.”

Market traders and other stakeholders have already met council officers to discuss the project and they have been invited to a further briefing this week.

A new Civic Quarter Liaison Group, to be chaired by Cllr Rosy Moore, Executive Councillor for Climate Change, will be established to involve market traders, residents, business representatives and other stakeholders, throughout the process. This dedicated website has gone live for the latest updates.

Once appointed, the design and consultancy team will produce options focusing on:

• Guildhall

Delivering improvements that make the Guildhall a more open and accessible place that retains the character and heritage of its grade II listing, meets the council’s civic and administrative needs and generates commercial revenue. Investment could be funded by the sale of Mandela House on Regent Street and the use of reserves.

• Market square

Developing the vision agreed by councillors in 2022 for the market square which followed consultation in 2021. The results of the consultation showed support for making the market square a more accessible, attractive, welcoming, exciting and safe place to visit, shop and gather, both during the day and into the evening.

• Corn Exchange

Exploring options to make the Corn Exchange a more modern and appealing venue with a programme of improvements to the facilities. Options will be considered for updating facilities, exploring new commercial opportunities and reducing operational costs.

The design and consultancy team’s work will also contribute towards the business case for matched funding of £1.5m earmarked by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority last year, subject to approval of the CPCA budget.

The process for appointing a design and consultancy team will take place through the council’s procurement portal: https://procontract.due-north.com/Login email: procurement@cambridge.gov.uk

The civic quarter project is an important part of the council’s transformation programme Our Cambridge which is creating a more digitally enabled and efficient council delivering high-quality services for residents. As part of this programme, the council is transforming some of its accommodation including the creation of an operational hub at Cowley Road by merging two existing sites.

The rationale for the project is:

1. To create a more attractive central Cambridge destination for residents and increase visitor numbers for the market, the Corn Exchange and businesses in the area;
2. To make long-term savings to help ensure frontline council services are sustainable, by cutting operational costs and increasing revenue streams;
3. To contribute to the council’s target of being net zero carbon by 2030.

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A report to Cambridge City Council’s Strategy and Resources Scrutiny Committee on 29 January recommends that detailed proposals for a major investment in the Guildhall, Market Square and Corn Exchange be worked up for consideration by councillors.

The report, which draws on a feasibility study carried out in recent weeks, sets out how investing in the civic quarter would help the council to achieve a number of important objectives including:

1. Creating a more attractive central Cambridge destination that would increase visitor numbers for the market, the Corn Exchange and businesses in the area;
2. Making essential, long term savings to ensure frontline council services are sustainable, by cutting operational costs and increasing revenue streams – a process that is a part of the council’s continuing ‘Our Cambridge’ transformation strategy;
3. Helping the council to meet its net zero carbon by 2030 target.

Investment in the Guildhall, Market Square and Corn Exchange would be managed as part of a single civic quarter programme, geared to maximise placemaking opportunities, minimise overheads and ensure close coordination.

Guildhall

The report highlights the potential to transform the Guildhall into a more open and accessible space that retains the character and heritage of its grade II listing, meets the council’s civic and administrative needs and generates commercial revenue. The required investment could be funded by the sale of Mandela House on Regent Street and the use of reserves.

Market Square

A vision for the Market Square was agreed by councillors in 2022 following consultation in 2021. This consultation showed support for changes to the Market Square to make it a more accessible, attractive, welcoming, exciting and safe place to visit, shop and gather both during the day and into the evening. If approved, the new civic quarter programme would take the next steps towards fulfilling the vision.

Corn Exchange

The potential to make the Corn Exchange a more modern and appealing venue with a programme of improvements to the facilities is also discussed in the report. It recommends that options be considered for updating facilities, exploring new commercial opportunities and reducing operational costs.

Cllr Simon Smith, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, said: “We are fortunate to have 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.

Cllr Smith added: “These proposals involve a major investment but they would achieve savings in future. We have been open about the financial challenges the council faces after years of government funding cuts and the impacts of the successive pandemic, inflation, and cost of living crises.

“All of that means a major capital investment in the Guildhall needs to deliver financial, environmental and social dividends.

“Under the next steps, investment cases will establish the potential financial returns to protect essential frontline services through operational savings and commercial income and more flexible and productive office space for staff.

“For the environment and the city’s cultural life, opportunities will be tested to convert the Guildhall into a net zero carbon building and a better used arts and entertainment venue.”

If councillors approve the recommendations in the report on 29 January, next steps would involve appointing a design and consultancy team to produce a detailed options and feasibility report for the civic quarter programme.

This work would also contribute towards the business case for matched funding of £1.5m earmarked by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority last year, subject to approval of the CPCA budget.

A new Civic Quarter Liaison Group would be established to involve key stakeholders such as market traders, residents and business representatives, throughout the process.

The proposals in the report are an important element of the council’s transformation programme ‘Our Cambridge’ which is creating a more digitally enabled and efficient council delivering high quality services for residents.

As part this programme, the council is transforming some of its accommodation including the creation of an operational hub at Cowley Road by merging two existing sites.

In a bid to support charities and social enterprises and generate income, the council has worked with Allia to establish a Future Business Centre in the Guildhall.

The council has also vacated its 171 Arbury Road office and is renting the premises to two charities, reducing operational costs and generating income.

In October 2022 the council expressed a preference for keeping the Guildhall as its HQ so long as it was financially beneficial and asked officers to investigate options and feasibility.

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