Corn Exchange refurbishment plans face scrutiny over rising ticket costs

The average price of a ticket to a council-promoted event at the Corn Exchange in Cambridge could rise to £50 or more, up from the current £24 plus VAT, following a major refurbishment. This price increase is projected to occur by the fifth year of the venue’s new operation. The changes are part of a larger £97.5 million Civic Quarter project intended to revitalize the city center.

Council plans estimate that the number of performances at the venue will increase from 180 per year to 340. The £26.5 million allocated for the Corn Exchange will fund upgrades to the main auditorium, foyers, and bar areas. Improvements will also include better seating, acoustics, sound quality, and lighting. The city has earmarked an additional £50 million for Guildhall improvements and £13.6 million for Market Square enhancements.

Labor councillor Beth Gardiner-Smith raised concerns that the price hike might exclude residents from attending events regularly. She stated, "What I don't think we want to see, but maybe others would disagree, is that people across Cambridge are priced out of going to events on a regular basis at the Corn Exchange." Gardiner-Smith emphasized the need to keep the venue accessible as a public space for the community.

The council clarified that the price increase will apply only to events it self-promotes. A larger portion of the venue’s income comes from hiring the space to other organizers, who set their own ticket prices. Council officers noted that income from the venue will help finance the remaining costs of the Civic Quarter scheme.

A report to the performance, assets and strategy overview and scrutiny committee on Tuesday described the restored site as a catalyst for a renewed arts and culture scene in Cambridge. The document highlighted the venue’s historical role in the UK music scene. Liberal Democrat councillor Karen Young, chair of the committee, said she had heard considerable concern about affordability.

Young added, "I'm hearing a lot of concern about the public not being priced out so we will pass that message onto cabinet." The committee’s review takes place as the council moves forward with the physical restoration and financial planning for the city center redevelopment.