The future of the former Mill Road Library in Cambridge is once again uncertain after the withdrawal of a preferred bidder, Cambridgeshire County Council has confirmed. The historic Grade II listed building, which dates back to its early use as a public library, is now open for offers from qualifying community groups.
Owned by the council since the 1970s, the building served as a library until 1996, before being leased to the Indian Community and Cultural Association until 2019. It was later used temporarily by the Hill Group for office and welfare purposes until February 2023.
The property—registered as an Asset of Community Value (ACV)—is now within a six-month moratorium period, meaning it can only be sold to eligible community groups during this time. The council says this process aims to ensure that any future use continues to serve local people.
A public meeting organised by the group Love Mill Road will take place at Mill Road Community Centre on Wednesday, October 15, to explore ideas for the building’s future. A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire County Council said the authority encourages “any interested residents and community groups to attend and contribute to this meeting.”
The council has already received notice of one qualifying community group’s intention to bid and is inviting other groups to express their interest as well. Applicants will need to demonstrate both the community benefits of their proposals and proof of funding to purchase and maintain the property.
At present, the council is not marketing the building on the open market, instead focusing on viable offers from community organisations. Any proposals received will be reviewed by councillors in January 2026.
Cllr Karen Young, Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council’s Assets and Procurement Committee, said:
“While it’s not ideal that the previous preferred bidder has withdrawn, this is an exciting opportunity to find the best use for this iconic building. We’re firmly resolved that any decisions on the future use of the building will continue to be subject to environmental and social considerations, as well as the financial offer made.
“I would ask all community groups that might be interested in becoming the future guardian for this listed building to please get in touch as soon as possible, using the email address: emu@cambridgeshire.gov.uk.”
For now, the future of the former Mill Road Library—a landmark with deep roots in Cambridge’s cultural and community life—remains open to new ideas and partnerships.