Akeman Street Community Centre, Cambridge

Set in the heart of Arbury, north Cambridge, the community centre, shops and new homes replaces a tired parade of shops and flats that were no longer fit for purpose. The initial design, by Mole Architects, achieved a planning consent in Autumn 2019 and soon after Rock Townsend was then appointed to take the Stage 2+ design through to completion.

Forming part of a city wide new-build, affordable housing programme, this former neighbourhood centre was redeveloped by Cambridge Investment Partnerships - a joint venture between the Cambridge City Council and Hill Group.

The new design sees two buildings arranged either side of a central landscaped garden with the larger of the two buildings addressing the Akeman Street comprising 3 replacement retail spaces, the community centre and one and two bedroom apartments above and to the rear.

Forecourt parking, bookended by a mature oak and plain tree, serves shoppers and visitors to the community centre whilst designated resident parking is located within the site along with ample cycle storage provision.

The community centre, designed to BREEAM ‘Very Good’ is divided into a series of spaces and meeting rooms that serve small one-to-one sessions and larger group meetings. Room 1 cater for 30 seating or 40 standing complete with sprung floor suitable for exercise sessions whilst Room 2 caters for 18 seated or 25 standing. Both rooms open out onto the dedicated community garden space catering for indoor and outdoor events.

“It is wonderful to see this site transformed and delivering these brand new council homes as well as the much anticipated new community centre which was an important facility for local residents prior to the pandemic and will open later in the year.”
— Cllr Mike Davey, Executive Councillor for Finance and Resources, CCC