LIBERAL DEMOCRATS SECURE BETTER DEAL FOR CIVIC QUARTER INVESTMENT

Liberal Democrats have secured a better deal for Cambridge taxpayers by ensuring the investment in the Guildhall and Corn Exchange delivers genuine financial returns for Cambridge residents.

At last night’s meeting of Cambridge City Council Liberal Democrat Leader Cllr Tim Bick successfully persuaded the Labour Council to improve the financial case over the next year so the investment contributes to protecting and improving council services, not just breaking even after two decades.

Cllr Bick said: "These buildings are the family silver - they belong to Cambridge residents and should work harder for our community. Whilst the Conservatives and the Greens want to look at selling these prime city centre assets, we're demanding a plan that actually works for residents and ensures these important buildings pay for themselves and help support local services."

The Lib Dem proposal forces the Labour Council to:

Rigorously review design, costings, and phasing to improve returns
Examine the funding strategy including external grants
Strengthen business plans for operating the refurbished facilities
"We support strategic investment in public assets, but £78 million demands more than marginal returns," added Cllr Bick. "Our amendment gives Labour a year to sharpen the financial case and prove this investment will genuinely benefit residents through better services, not just better buildings."

The Civic Quarter project will return to Council in September 2026 for final approval.