Cambridge City Council has released updated plans for its Civic Quarter project, which aims to transform three of the city centre’s key landmarks, the Cambridge Market, Corn Exchange, and Guildhall, into more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable spaces. The public is now invited to give feedback on the revised proposals ahead of a planning application expected in late 2025.
The updates follow a round of community engagement held in summer 2024 and reflect public input on how best to enhance these much-loved heritage sites while ensuring they remain vibrant, functional, and environmentally responsible.
Cambridge Market
The latest proposals continue to support a thriving seven-day market with a combination of permanent and demountable stalls, the latter to offer flexibility based on trader demand. Demountable stalls will be trialled with traders in the coming weeks.
The plans include new covered seating areas to provide shelter and comfort. In response to earlier concerns about anti-social behaviour, the size of the canopy has been reduced, and additional lighting has been proposed to improve safety. An underground bin storage area will help declutter the space, while the square is also set to host small-scale cultural events like outdoor film screenings and themed markets. Importantly, the existing fountain—originally slated for removal—will now be retained and restored, and the wider area will see increased planting to boost biodiversity.
Corn Exchange
The Corn Exchange is set to benefit from energy-saving upgrades, including insulation and solar panels, as well as full accessibility throughout the venue. Improved sound quality and updated audiovisual systems are part of the plan to meet higher standards for performers and audiences alike.
More concessions and bar areas will be introduced to reduce queues and expand food and drink options. Event capacity will also increase to allow for larger audiences and a broader range of events.
The Guildhall
The Grade II-listed Guildhall will be conserved and upgraded to operate at net zero carbon, following EnerPHit standards. This includes the installation of Air Source Heat Pumps and solar panels. On the ground floor, a new customer service centre and a public café will be introduced, along with a Changing Places toilet to improve accessibility.
The Council Chamber, currently hampered by fixed furniture and limited accessibility, will be made more flexible and inclusive. The historic furniture will be retained for use elsewhere in the building, and the reconfigured space will accommodate future needs such as increased councillor numbers and varied community use.
Workspaces for council staff, commercial tenants, and bookable public rooms are planned across the other floors. Modern yet sensitive updates will also be made to the large and small halls to enhance their usability.
Responding to community concerns, a previously suggested hotel development within the Guildhall has been removed from the latest proposal.
The council is inviting residents to view the detailed plans and provide feedback by Sunday 22 June.
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