CFCI Annual Debate 2025
Should Cambridge grow up – not out?
The CFCI Annual Debate is back – and this year we’re stepping into one of Cambridge’s most iconic spaces.
Join us in the newly refurbished Cambridge Union Society Debating Chamber, a venue that’s welcomed global changemakers from Bill Gates to Stephen Hawking and the Dalai Lama. Now, it’s your turn to step into the spotlight and tackle one of the biggest questions facing our city:
“This House believes Cambridge should grow up (not out).”
With Cambridge in the grip of rapid growth – from housing to high-tech, from labs to life sciences – how we shape the city’s future has never been more important. Should we build taller and denser? Or protect the city’s edges from development? Could a Development Corporation be part of the answer? And how does the climate emergency reframe our choices?
Expect bold ideas, lively discussion, and thought-provoking perspectives from our stellar speaker line-up:
🎤 Neil Murphy – Director, TOWN
🎤Sarah Hare – Department of Architecture, University of Cambridge
🎤Andy Levy – Cambridge University, Head of Capital Projects
🎤 Nicholas Boys Smith – Founder, Create Streets
🎤 Elliot Page – KMC Transport
🎤 Hero Bennett – Max Fordham
🗓️ Date: 23 June
📍 Venue: Cambridge Union Society
🍷 Tickets: £15 – includes a pre-debate drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
130+ tickets already sold – so book now to avoid missing out.
