The plans are part of a wider £19.2 million project

Plans to redesign a major Cambridge venue that hosts events and gigs has taken a step forward. The proposals for Cambridge Corn Exchange, which are part of a £19.2 million project, have been approved.

Cambridge Corn Exchange, considered the largest performance venue in the East of England, would see upgrades to the main auditorium, improvements to foyers and bar areas, changes to the surrounding public space, improved seating, acoustics, sound quality and lighting.

These plans are part of the Civic Quarter redevelopment project “to reimagine the area in Central Cambridge”, according to Cambridge City Council. The plans comprise of work to the Guildhall, Corn Exchange, Market Square, and public spaces in-between.

Under the plans, the Corn Exchange would also be upgraded with energy-saving measures including solar panels and energy systems to manage comfort levels.

The Corn Exchange would be closed during construction, with the aim to reopened within 18 months. The possibility of opening a temporary venue is being considered, to avoid absences of events.

Cllr Dr Antoinette Nestor, Cabinet Member for Cultural Services, said: “Cambridge Corn Exchange is the largest performance venue in the East of England, vital to Cambridge’s cultural life, and the proposed enhancements will ensure it continues to thrive, with enhanced seating arrangements and facilities including more toilets and new lifts to ensure everyone can enjoy the venue.

“While we need to invest in the Corn Exchange to ensure its longevity for the future, we recognise that closure will create a two-year absence of cultural and community events which will be felt locally as well as by those who visit Cambridge for cultural experiences. We are determined to carefully consider whether it is viable for us to create a temporary venue for the two years to ensure people can still enjoy the majority of the Corn Exchange’s annual programme during the closure.”

In a planning committee meeting held last week, councillors decided to defer the Civic Quarter plans which would see the Market Square upgraded. The plans would see the historic setts relayed to create a more level and accessible surface.

The proposals were deferred due to concerns raised by the county council’s highways department for a flush, level surface around the market, according to Cambridge City Council. Before the application is brought back for determination later in the year, the city council will take another look at road safety, cycle parking and traffic regulation orders.

The Guildhall, where the planning committee meeting took place, has also had plans approved. These plans include a public café, new work space for commercial tenants, and Changing Places toilet.

Before any work can start, a further decision on whether to proceed with the project will be taken by Cabinet and Full Council in autumn 2026. If approved, work could start on site from January 2027.