Creative Quarter

We're creating a modern, industry-standard creative hub on our campus in Cambridge.

The campus has long been home to students of art, design, media and the performing arts – and the new Creative Quarter will feature:

  • expanded 3D workshops
  • modernised printmaking suites
  • post-production media facilities
  • a dedicated film studio
  • new performance venues and gallery spaces.

To do this, we'll bring together existing facilities in the Coslett, Ruskin and Webb buildings, creating an enhanced learning environment and improved outdoor spaces.

Our aim is to further enhance graduates' employability, and continue shaping the next generation of creative talent. 

Staff will also benefit from new teaching and studio spaces, with upgraded equipment helping to make practical demonstrations easier and supporting a wider range of teaching methods.

Campus access

Our campus will remain open throughout the construction process.

Essential quiet study areas, including the University library and open-access computing spaces, are unaffected and will be open as usual.

Most classrooms and lecture theatres will remain in the Coslett Building, while office zoning in Helmore will keep academic staff close to their teaching areas.

Timeline

Construction will take place in phases, starting with the Coslett Building, to minimise disruption.

  • Phase 1 begins on Monday 3 August 2026. It focuses on internal refurbishment and remodelling across the ground, first and third floors of the Coslett Building, alongside essential electrical infrastructure upgrades. These works are scheduled to run until 18 December 2026.
  • Phase 2 is scheduled to begin in March 2027. It covers more visible external construction, including building enhancements and scaffolding installation across the campus.
  • We'll confirm timelines for work in the Ruskin and Webb buildings as the project progresses.
  • Expected completion date: January-March 2028.

Shaping the project together

The design of the Creative Quarter has been shaped by feedback from staff, students and the local community.

If you're a current student or member of staff, you can continue to have your say through upcoming workshops and events. We'll consider feedback as work progresses. 

At these events, we'll also share updates on design progress and timelines.

We'll publish dates on this page when they're confirmed.

Minimising disruption

Construction activity will take place between 8am–5pm, Monday–Friday.

Once work begins, you'll see construction vehicles, contractors and deliveries on campus, particularly around the Collier Gate entrance, the Coslett Building and surrounding areas.

While some noise and dust are unavoidable, proactive site management and dust suppression will be used to keep disruption to a minimum, with activity closely monitored throughout.

Clear signage will guide you safely around campus as works progress.

We appreciate your patience while these works take place.

Find out more

For updates on the Creative Quarter or to raise any questions, please email [email protected]