Cambridge City Council Opens New Sustainable Operations Hub
Cambridge City Council has officially opened its new Operations Hub, delivered by VolkerFitzpatrick, marking a major milestone in the council’s drive for sustainable and efficient public services.
Hear from project leaders about the construction of the Operations Hub in Cowley Road, Cambridge
The new two-storey facility brings together the council’s essential frontline services under one roof, providing 7,500m² of modern office, storage and operational space, as well as parking for the city’s fleet of cleaning, maintenance and landscaping vehicles. The project included the construction of a contemporary office extension and the refurbishment of a former garage to accommodate vans, tractors and trailers.
The official opening took place on 9 October, with representatives from Cambridge City Council, VolkerFitzpatrick and Gleeds and Lanpro in attendance. The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by speeches celebrating the successful delivery of the project and its long-term benefits for local services and sustainability.
A Benchmark for Sustainable Design
Setting new standards for sustainable municipal infrastructure, the Operations Hub incorporates solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and infrastructure to support an all-electric vehicle fleet. These features play a key role in supporting the council’s ambition to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Delivering Social Value and Skills Development
The project achieved an outstanding £1.4 million in social value—almost double the original target—representing 22% of the total contract value. Highlights included:
- £663,083 spent with local SMEs
- Employment of an entirely local VolkerFitzpatrick workforce
- Graduate and industrial placement opportunities fostering professional development
- Site tours for 67 University of Cambridge students, enhancing engagement with the academic community
VolkerFitzpatrick also championed diversity and inclusion through a Women in Construction Week event, and contributed to charitable and community initiatives across the region.
“Delivering the Cambridge Operations Hub has been a proud achievement for VolkerFitzpatrick. This strategically important facility not only consolidates vital frontline services under one roof, but also sets a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure and community impact. From its innovative design to the £1.4 million in social value generated, the project exemplifies our commitment to building spaces that serve both people and the environment.”
Stuart Deverill Managing Director, VolkerFitzpatrick’s Building Division
Cllr Cameron Holloway, Leader of the Council, said: “The completion of the new Operations Hub is a landmark achievement for Cambridge City Council and a clear example of how ambitious public projects can be delivered responsibly, collaboratively, and sustainably.
“This facility isn’t just a modern workplace, it represents a step change in how we deliver essential services for our residents, bringing our frontline teams together under one roof and supporting our journey to Net Zero.
“The partnership between the council, VolkerFitzpatrick and Gleeds has shown what’s possible when the public and private sectors work hand in hand with a shared purpose. Winning Project of the Year – East at the National Project Excellence Awards (NPEA) 2025 is also a well-deserved recognition for the dedication, innovation, and teamwork that made this vision a reality.”
A New Era for Council Services
Bringing together multiple teams – including housing repairs, street cleansing, fleet management, and parks and open spaces – the new Operations Hub creates a single, coordinated base for all council operations. Its modern and landscaped working environment promotes wellbeing, collaboration and productivity, marking the beginning of a new era in the way Cambridge City Council delivers essential public services.
Related News
