In response to an enquiry from the media today we issued the following statement in regards to the Cambridge Market Square project.
Cllr Rosy Moore, Executive Councillor for Environment, Climate Change and Biodiversity at Cambridge City Council said: “The public consultation in the summer of 2021 occurred prior to the council’s subsequent decision to review the market project. This review was based on a number of issues revealed by further work following the consultation, which uncovered some new challenges around delivering the concept design as initially proposed, and around how the market square project will fit in with other major emerging schemes potentially affecting the city centre which won’t be reported on to the council until early 2023.
“I approved the proposal to review and reset the project following scrutiny in public at the Environment and Communities Scrutiny Committee in March 2022.
“The consultation report was very clear that a high number of people would like to see changes and improvements to the market square, even if they did not agree with all of the suggestions put forward in the earlier proposed vision and concept design. Further investigations have also suggested that some work may need to be done in any case to preserve parts of the heritage assets in the square.
“The demountable stalls are just one small part of the project which will help to future-proof the project and provide our city with the opportunity to have an open civic space. The main aim of the project is to ensure the future of the market by renovating the square, with new smoother flooring which is more accessible and easier to clean. We also plan to have a more attractive and open space so that shoppers stay longer in the market whilst preserving the heritage of the square by restoring the fountain, railings and setts. We will be getting rid of the unsightly compactor and installing a new waste system and new toilets for traders.
“The council remains committed to the seven day market and is continuing to consider all feedback from the initial public consultation, including questions around cleaning, refurbishment and potential live events. Discussions with key stakeholders, including stallholders, are ongoing - and will help inform the council’s approach on this project, which aims to enhance the use, sustainability and enjoyment of our market square for everyone in the future.”
The executive councillor leading on this matter is Cllr Rosy Moore, (Labour) Executive Councillor for Environment, Climate Change and Biodiversity. Spokespersons from the other political groups on this issue are Cllr Olaf Hauk (Liberal Democrat) and Cllr Hannah Copley (Green/Independent Group)
