Restoring the Stirling Building

After almost 60 years of continuous use, the Grade II* listed History Faculty building, designed by James Stirling, is showing significant signs of wear. A refurbishment is required to safeguard the building for future generations and meet the 21st Century needs of the University, the Faculty of History and the Seeley Library. 

Planning permission and listed building consent, for the building refurbishment was granted at the end of May 2025. The main construction works are due to begin soon, subject to University approval of the Full Business Case.

Find out more about the building and its history on the Faculty of History website. 

Getting ready for the work  

All staff and students have now moved out of the Stirling building and enabling works have started on site. Work underway includes asbestos removal.  

The Seeley Library, and its collections, moved out of the Stirling building in December 2024 into a dedicated and newly designed space within the University Library where it will remain until work on the Stirling Building is complete. 

Space in buildings on the Sidgwick site and in neighbouring Colleges, will provide seminar, study and lecture space for History staff and students whilst the building is closed. A map is available to help students and staff to locate these spaces. A modular temporary two-storey building (next to Sidgwick Lodge and behind the Austin Robinson building) provides a physical hub for the Faculty of History’s administration and student support. 

Project Charter

A Project Charter has been developed which sets the shared goals, challenges, success measures, and expected behaviours for all involved. 

Changes to access

There will be changes to the cycling and pedestrian access around the Sidgwick site for the duration of the project. The map above shows the routes through and around the site whilst the construction work is carried out, and the areas that will be closed off. These routes will remain in place for the duration of the project until the building reopens. This map will be on the hoardings as well as other signage along the routes. The bin store has been relocated to next to the Faculty of Music. 

Stay informed

Read the December project newsletter (PDF) from the main building contractor SDC. If you have any queries or questions or would like to be kept informed about this project please email Stirling.Project@admin.cam.ac.uk

 November 2025 project newsletter (PDF)

October 2025 project newsletter (PDF)

The planning application and listed building consent  (25/00638/FUL and 25/00639/LBC) can be accessed from the Greater Cambridge Planning website 

Site occupants and neighbours will be notified in advance of any noisy works scheduled during term time.