A report being taken to Strategy and Resources Scrutiny Committee today (22 January) recommends a detailed study on proposals for a partial redevelopment of the site.
These proposals could see the large music and entertainment venue at Junction One, the older main building at the Junction, replaced by a state of the art multi-storey building containing not only a new and improved large performance space but also a mix of new creative workspaces.
There would also be a new unified entrance linking the existing smaller performance and education spaces, known as J2 and J4, to the new building.
At the meeting today, Councillors will discuss proposals for a detailed study on the preferred partial redevelopment scheme for Cambridge Junction. This study would be considered as part of an overall masterplan for the entire site – the freehold of which is owned by the council – subject to winning the funding the redevelopment needs.
The proposals build on a citywide study by the council to assess the cultural infrastructure of Cambridge, including the potential of Cambridge Junction to help meet the future arts and cultural needs of the growing number of residents in Cambridge and beyond.
The study identified a cluster of arts and cultural venues within a mile of Cambridge city centre, but a shortage of multi-use venues and theatres with production, rehearsal and education space in the Greater Cambridge area, a gap the Junction already makes a contribution to.
It also identified a need for facilities in locations close to sustainable transport links, and able to engage with the whole community, like the Junction which is located close to Cambridge station.
Cllr Lewis Herbert, Leader of the Council, said: “Cambridge Junction makes a vital contribution in bringing live performance, art and culture to us in Cambridge but also to people across the region, enabling our community to participate fully in the arts.
“These exciting redevelopment proposals will potentially ensure that Cambridge Junction continues providing the excellent cultural facilities and services that Cambridge will need in the years to come as the area’s population grows.
“We will help the Junction to win the funding they need and get as good a development plan for this site as we can. We will also make full use of further opportunities with them to make the best possible use of this site for the arts and music they deliver, and for the wider benefits Cambridge residents can gain.”