Submissions are now open for the Greater Cambridge Design and Construction Awards 2026, celebrating excellence in building design, construction, and the people who make it happen across the region.
Organised by the Greater Cambridge Planning Service in partnership with the Cambridge Forum for the Construction Industry (CFCI), the awards have been held annually since 1988. They showcase best practice in the built environment and recognise projects of all sizes, types, and complexities.
Award Categories for 2026
Project Award categories:
- Best New Building
- Under £3m construction costs
- Over £3m construction costs
- Best Conservation, Alteration, or Extension of an Existing Building
- Under £3m construction costs
- Over £3m construction costs
- Best new neighbourhood
- David Mackay Award for Engineering and Sustainability
- Craftsmanship Award
- Contractor Award
People Awards categories:
- Young Professional of the Year
- Apprentice of the Year
- Site Manager of the Year
Judging for the Building Awards covers all aspects of the building, including design, sustainability, engineering, workmanship, and construction.
Tom Foggin, CFCI Chair, said: “It’s a privilege to launch this year’s Greater Cambridge Design and Construction Awards. Our region succeeds because of the strength of its partnerships - from designers and contractors to clients and communities. These awards celebrate that shared effort and the exceptional projects that continue to put Greater Cambridge on the map.”
Cambridge City Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Transport, Cllr Katie Thornburrow, commented: “These awards shine a spotlight on the very best projects across Greater Cambridge, from small-scale developments to major schemes. They highlight the breadth of talent and expertise that drives our construction industry forward. Winners are selected for their excellence in design, sustainability, and the wider social and economic benefits they deliver. Above all, the awards promote best practice and celebrate the achievements of local professionals who help shape our built environment.”
Cllr Dr. Tumi Hawkins, South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Lead Cabinet Member for Planning Policy and Delivery, said: “The Greater Cambridge Design and Construction Awards showcase what can be achieved when developers and local authorities work together. These awards celebrate individuals, companies, and organisations that deliver excellence in the design, construction, and completion of projects across Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire. If you know of a recently completed building, contractor, or professional in the construction industry who deserves recognition, we encourage you to enter them for the 2026 awards.”
Previous winners of the awards include Meadows Community Centre, Kings College Chapel Roof and Pembroke Mill Lane, which was shortlisted in the national AJ Architecture Awards 2025. Winners in 2024 included Clare College Old Court and River Cafe, Dovehouse Court in Girton and The Technology Partnership (TTP) in Melbourn.
Entries for the Project Awards should be submitted by Friday 9 January 2026 and by Friday 20 February for the People Awards. Winners will be announced in a ceremony on 4 March. More information and how to submit an entry can be found on the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning website.
