The A689 Carlisle Southern Link Road (CSLR) will provide a high-quality link to the south of Carlisle, connecting Junction 42 of the M6 to the A595 at Newby West. The route will pass the villages of Brisco, Durdar and Cummersdale and will involve the construction of new sections of single carriageway 8.2km in length, five new roundabouts and bridges over the Cumbria Coast Railway Line, the River Caldew, the West Coast Main Railway line and the River Petteril.

The input gathered from previous public engagement has played a pivotal role in shaping the direction and scope of the project. This inclusive approach has ensured that the voices and concerns of the community have been taken into account in the development of the project.

Refer to page 3 which provides a project overview.

This report has been compiled to outline the placemaking for the Carlisle Southern Link Road (CSLR). It was established early in the project that a placemaking strategy was required to ensure that the proposed design celebrated and strengthened the unique qualities of the local landscape character.

The intention was to:

• create distinctive areas within this large infrastructure project 
• aid wayfinding 
• create a sense of place
• enhance local biodiversity.

Whilst placemaking has been considered throughout the project design as a whole, there are several specific areas where placemaking has been a key focus. Design proposals that create distinctive roundabouts, some publicly accessible SuDS ponds and some serving the wildlife and biodiversity, the Caldew River Corridor, suitable street furniture design along with bespoke wayfinding signage, and interpretative boards make up the placemaking design for CSLR. These will be listed within the document alongside an explanation of what features are being proposed in these locations and why.

This report will act as a supporting document to fulfil the planning condition for the implementation and successful commencement of the project.

While the CSLR project is currently under construction, it should be noted that the design and placement of elements presented in this document is due to change as the project proceeds on site.

The names chosen for the ponds and major structures along the new route have been thoughtfully selected to reflect and celebrate the rich history and diverse contributions of this area. Each name tells a story, connecting the present to the past and honouring the individuals and industries that have shaped the area and the community.

The ponds have been named to highlight the area's deep artistic heritage, recognising the many painters, sculptors, writers, and other creative minds who have lived and worked here. Their work has not only enriched the local culture but has also had a lasting impact beyond this community, inspiring generations with their creativity and vision. By dedicating these names to the artistic legacy of the region, we aim to encourage a continued appreciation for the arts and inspire new creative endeavours.

Similarly, the structures along the route pay tribute to the engineers, architects, and industries that have played a crucial role in shaping the landscape and development of this area. These individuals and enterprises have been instrumental in driving progress, from designing remarkable buildings to pioneering innovations that have influenced the wider world. Their contributions are a testament to the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and resilience that define this community.

By naming these landmarks after the artists, engineers, and visionaries who have left their mark on the area, we seek to create a meaningful connection between the past and present. Visitors will not only experience the beauty of the surroundings but also gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity and innovation that continue to shape this special place. Our hope is that these names will serve as an enduring tribute, inspiring people to explore, reflect, and take pride in the rich history that makes this area truly unique.

The kind of street furniture we plan to use for the project reflects the natural qualities of this predominantly rural landscape. Street furniture items are primarily timber:

• seating
• litter bins
• dog waste bins
• cycle stands
• fingerposts
• entrance signage
• information boards

Each furniture item has been chosen to ensure both durability and a natural aesthetic, reflecting our commitment to quality and the environment.

By introducing seating areas, cycle stands, and footpaths to new amenity spaces, we provide opportunities for people to make short cycle journeys or walks from the existing and new residential developments.

Along the paths, we propose to install seating and signage at strategic locations, enhancing the experience of using the routes.

Pedestrian gates are single-way closing or two-way self-closing, with hinge arrangement to provide easier access to users with larger mobility devices, pushchairs, etc.

To avoid pedestrians opening a large vehicle gate to access public rights of way (PROW) or amenity areas. A pedestrian gate alongside will be provided for pedestrians to use, and allows the use of larger vehicle gate limited to those who need vehicular access for maintenance/private access.

Insect house

Used to provide shelter and habitat for a variety of beneficial insects, including solitary bees, ladybirds, lacewings, beetles, and other small creatures.

The "Insect House" will be made from reclaimed and recycled materials and proposed that could be created alongside local community groups, leading to community engagement.

Signage

Bespoke signage used throughout the project and information boards are used at specific locations adding interest and information to the public.

The Susanna Blamire Pond is named after the ‘Muse of Cumberland’. Susanna was a poet whose work gained recognition posthumously. She is now considered one of the most notable poets writing in a Cumberland dialect.

Susanna Blamire Pond is located near the proposed housing north of Peter Lane. Therefore, it has been designed with an informal, publicly accessible hoggin path to enable the local residents and visitors to this area of green space.

The proposed woodland planting contains native coniferous species, native broadleaf trees, and shrub species. Most of this space will also be sown with a species-rich native grass and wildflower mix, along with native marginal and aquatic planting around the pond.

The William Paley Pond is named after one of the most famous thinkers of his day, still known for his watchmaker argument for the existence of god from the intricate design of the world. The vicar of Dalston and Archdeacon of Carlisle he was an enthusiastic fisherman who knew the area around the Caldew very well. William Paley's writings were some of the most influential philosophical texts in late Enlightenment Britain and even inspired Charles Darwin.

The Stead McAlpin Pond is named after the local, world-famous printers. They have had a factory at Cummersdale since 1835. The factory was once the most versatile printing factory in the UK, using rotary, flatbed and digital printmaking. They completed prints for Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth II, Buckingham Palace, Winston Churchill, even had print work on the Titanic.

Stead McAlpin Pond is located near the mill at Cummersdale and is one of the biodiversity ponds which is not accessible to the public.

Native woodland planting with a species-rich grass and wildflower mix has been proposed to reflect the local character and benefit wildlife.

The Lonsdale Pond is named after Hugh Lowther, the 5th Earl of Lonsdale and the Lonsdale Battalion known for being well trained with good comradery and discipline. The battalion was made up of volunteers from Carlisle, Kendal and Workington. They camped at their base at Blackhall Racecourse, now known as Carlisle Racecourse and trained in the area on a rifle range that spanned over the Caldew.

The Lonsdale Pond is located near Caldew Valley, to the south of the proposed link road. This pond shall have more of a wildlife focus due to its more secluded location.

This is a biodiversity pond with two timber benches and one information board included in the design.

A public footpath runs through this area. The pond is designed to promote ecology and biodiversity of wildlife.

The Adam Bell Pond is named after the legendary English outlaw, similar to Robin Hood. He and his companions, William of Cloudsley and Clym of the Clough, lived in Inglewood Forest, a larger forest at the time, the edge of which was located south of Carlisle. Adam, William and Clym have an interesting story and end up employed by the King and served as Yeomen in the North Country.

The Adam Bell Pond will not be open to members of the public. This pond has been designed to promote wildlife and biodiversity.

The design of this pond focuses on creating an area to support diverse range of wildlife by planting a combination of broadleaf woodland, aquatic planting, species rich grassland, native shrub and individual trees that will provide a variety of habitats.

The John Scott Pond is named after John Scott who was born in Carlisle. His father and grandfather, both also named John Scott, had a business as gilders and manufacturers of stained glass. Some of which can still been viewed in St Michael’s in Longtown. He had his early education at Hannah's Academy in Carlisle. He later studied at the Carlisle School of Art, while also working in the family business. He exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1872, and also showed works at the Carlisle School of Art's exhibition.

The John Scott Pond will not be open to members of the public due to its location away from rights of way and residential areas. This pond has been designed to promote wildlife and biodiversity.

A combination of broadleaf woodland planting, aquatic planting, species rich grassland, native shrub and individual trees will be planted that will provide good habitats and a food source for wildlife. Species rich grassland is of great ecological value, the mix contains wildflower species which will support a wide range of pollinators as well as act as a great habitat for various invertebrates, birds and mammals.

The Thomas Bushby Pond is named after Thomas Bushby who at the age of 23 had moved to Carlisle and was employed as a designer with Hudson Scott and Sons. His employers encouraged him in his painting, and his work which featured scenes from Rickerby Park, Wreay and Brisco attracted a lot of attention. His landscapes and rural scenes characterised by their pastel and light colouration were exhibited at the Royal Academy, the Royal Society of Arts, the Royal Cambrian Academy, the Royal Institute, the Walker Art Gallery, the Liverpool, and the Carlisle Art Gallery.

The design of the area around Thomas Bushby Pond is very similar to that of Susanna Blamire Pond. However, it is larger in its scale.

The proposed woodland planting contains native coniferous species, native broadleaf trees, and shrub species. Most of this space will also be sown with a species-rich native grass and wildflower mix, along with native marginal and aquatic planting around the pond.

The Robert Anderson Pond is named after Robert Anderson the Cumberland Bard. He was born on 1 February 1770, the youngest child of nine when his parents were already old. An English labouring class poet from Carlisle. He was best known for his ballad-style poems in Cumbrian dialect. Unfortunately he died very poor, but with the financial support of friends, he was buried in the grounds of Carlisle Cathedral such was the value of his work to others.

The Robert Anderson Pond lies to the eastmost end of this project, in close proximity to the River Petteril.

Due to its location away from rights of way and residential area, the Robert Anderson Pond will not be open to members of the public and has been designed to promote wildlife and biodiversity.

A combination of broadleaf woodland planting, aquatic planting, species-rich grassland, native shrub and individual tree will provide a variety of habitats in terms food and habitat for various invertebrates, birds and mammals, while also supporting a wide range of pollinators.

The design of the Newby West Roundabout has considered the local landscape character and cultural heritage. Its linear form references the historic Roman Road (approximately following the route of the A595), which interconnects Carlisle with the Roman forts of Old Carlisle and Papcastle.

Gently graded earthworks have been designed so that the planting “faces” traffic arriving from Carlisle and reflects the gently sloping topography in the area. A steeper sloped wall will be faced with weathering steel, which complements the colour palette of the planting and the design of the overbridge behind, which has weathering steel beams.

Semi-mature Scots Pine trees have been proposed linearly to reinforce a sense of arrival and reflect the coniferous plantation woodland in this locality.

Blocks of ornamental shrubs, grasses, and perennials, with some areas of ornamental meadow mixes, have been proposed for the roundabout’s centre. The proposed planting style, designed to provide interest through seasonal change, colour, texture, and structural form in a naturalistic style, will create a visual spectacle that excites and intrigues all who pass through.

This roundabout is envisioned to be a key gateway to the city of Carlisle. To fulfil this role, more ornamental species have been proposed to ensure a prolonged season of interest, underscoring the significance of this junction to the area.

The Cummersdale Roundabout has been designed to be modest and reflect the area's rural characteristics. Over time, the perceived width of this roundabout will appear to diminish due to the proposed central area of broadleaf woodland planting, which creates a visual screen.

A sandstone wall around this woodland planting references this typical boundary type within the townscape of Cummersdale. The circular form would contrast with the adjacent roundabouts along the route, helping to create a distinct identity and assist navigation for drivers. Earthworks have been gently graded to be raised in the centre to provide variation.

The design of Durdar Roundabout is unique, featuring two 5m high abstract steel horse sculptures that pay homage to the local Carlisle area. The earthworks on the roundabout will be profiled to create a raised central area of approximately 1-2m, gently graded out to enhance visual interest across the large roundabout.

The naturalistic, ornamental meadow planting not only accentuates the rural qualities of this landscape but also ensures a longer-lasting period of seasonal interest. Beech hedge planting has been proposed to provide some structure in the landscape design to compliment the horses, alongside some semi-mature oak trees, which are typical features in the local landscape.

As with the proposals for the other sections of the project, the design of Durdar Roundabout has been carefully considered to ensure that it will complement the St Cuthbert’s Garden Village proposals. It is designed to be a source of local pride, distinct from the adjacent Cummersdale and Redcat Roundabouts with their broadleaf woodland areas.

Redcat Roundabout has been designed to be simple in appearance. The central area, featuring broadleaf woodland and species-rich grassland, effectively reduces the perceived width of the roundabout and road, while enhancing the sense of place.

This intentional design serves to create a striking contrast with the two roundabouts to the east and west, which are more formal in design to ensure that they are different.

The design of this roundabout is uniquely centred around a 5m high abstract steel Limousin bull sculpture, a distinctive feature that pays homage to the agricultural heritage of Brisco and the surrounding landscape and the previous use of the adjacent Cumberland Show field. This design, with its unique features, draws inspiration from the curved sandstone walls at Brisco Hall and Woodside Park, which are key features of this local landscape.

Alternate semi-mature Beech and Copper Beech trees in a formal planting style also reference local landscape character and provide a striking contrast to other roundabout designs, highlighting the uniqueness of this proposal. The landform of this roundabout has been proposed to be raised approximately 2m in the central platform area, with 1:6 slopes towards the edges. Naturalistic, ornamental meadow planting emphasises the rural qualities of this landscape but provides a longer-lasting period of seasonal interest.

As with the proposals for the other sections of the project, the design of Brisco Roundabout has been considered to ensure that it will be complimentary of the St Cuthbert’s Garden Village proposals. This roundabout will be locally distinctive and contrast the adjacent Redcat Roundabout, which is planted with a central area of broadleaf woodland and is surrounded by a relatively open landscape, in contrast to the proposed wooded embankments, which will enclose the Brisco Roundabout.

This roundabout was noted to be a “gateway” to the future St. Cuthberts Garden Village from the east, which is why a more formal design approach has been taken for this location.

Following the felling of the plantation coniferous woodland, this area will be replanted with native, mixed woodland with species-rich grassland.

This new biodiverse woodland provides better habitat connectivity for a range of wildlife species between the same type of woodland at the Susanna Blamire Pond and the William Paley Pond. Species rich grassland is of great ecological value, the mix contains wildflower species which will support a wide range of pollinators as well as act as a great habitat for various invertebrates, birds and mammals.

The Caldew Valley is a well used recreational route for walkers, cyclists and fishermen. Alongside its natural beauty, it is home to a diverse range of wildlife and has a fascinating history. The design of Caldew River Corridor will further enhance the sense of place and complement local landscape character.

At the southern end of the proposed path from the Caldew Crossing Bridge to the Caldew Valley footway and cycleway, a simple yet effective area of ornamental planting and three individual trees, large natural stone and smooth boulders. Further down the path, where there will be long distance views across the valley, three durable timber benches will be included.

The Caldew Crossing bridge is designed with three span design to allow the Caldew River to move naturally and freely within the floodplain, reducing impact on floodplain. This design has helped the intent of limiting the impact on original surroundings by construction, therefore limited the need for replanting in the natural surroundings.

Where the impact of construction has happened, we have translocated the soil and trees where possible. The embankments are planted with woodland trees and scrub planting. The Lonsdale Pond is planted with aquatic plants and is surrounded by species-rich grassland, making it a valuable pond for wildlife biodiversity.

Throughout the project, general design principles have been applied while proposing the landscape. Within visibility splays, the landscape design ensures that there will be no obstructions. Predominantly, in vegetated areas, an amenity grass seed mix has been specified due to its suitability for roadside verges. This mix will be tolerant of road salts and aid with the prevention of soil erosion as it establishes quickly and helps to bind soils. It will also tolerate the high frequency cutting regime that will be required within the visibility splays.

To provide sustainable management of surface water, the highway design incorporates swales, alongside the carriageway.

Where tree planting is proposed along the edge of the carriageway, this has been offset by a minimum of 5m for standard tree sizes and 7.5m for semimature tree planting.

Furthermore, mitigation to reduce the landscape impacts includes:

• approximately 16km of species rich hedgerow planting and 1km of translocated hedgerows
• native coniferous and broadleaf tree and woodland planting resulting in approximately five more trees
• grading out slopes where possible to a shallower gradient to allow them to be returned to agricultural use and integrate better into the natural landscape

Native broadleaf woodland and shrub planting with species-rich grassland is proposed in this location that will promote biodiversity.

Plaques displaying the names of the bridges will be fixed centrally to the bridge parapets (footbridges and road bridges).

Refer to the document on page 33 which showcases a few examples of how the bridges will look once complete.

Caldew Crossing 

Named by local students and reflects the river that it crosses over and that communities on either side to cross over and connect with one another.

Sarah Losh Bridge

Named after Sarah Losh who was an English architect and designer. Her biographer describes her as an antiquarian, architect and visionary. She was a landowner of Wreay, where her prime work, St Mary's Church, can be found.

Harry Redfern Bridge 

Named after Harry Redfern a well-known British architect responsible for designing, in an imaginative and varied manner, fourteen pubs in and around Carlisle. His work introduced comfortable seating, women’s bars, food, leisure facilities, games like darts and pool. Modern pub design is built on the work of Harry Redfern.

Cowans Sheldon Railway Bridge

Named after the Carlisle firm of Cowans, Sheldon & Co. The company had a world-leading reputation in the construction of rail and dock cranes which were exported across the world. In 1933 the largest floating crane in the world was manufactured by Cowans Sheldon, then the world’s leading crane makers.

Peastree Farm Bridge

Named after the nearby farm. Farming remains a key part of the area and the Peastree Farm Bridge provides access for agricultural activity and a public footpath. The structure provides safe access for around 300 cows every day.

St Cuthberts Bridge

Named after St Cuthbert who, in 685, after being granted lands in Cumberland by Aldfrith, the new King of Northumbria, founded a monastery in the area. The land around the South of Carlisle became known as the Parish of St Cuthberts.

Stoneraise Bridge

Named by the children who attend a local primary school close to the bridge. Students from the school were invited to visit the site and the bridge and learn about the Carlisle Southern Link Road. Their School Council put forward the name for the Bridge, which was accepted. The bridge and the project include a new shared use path to the school which will provide a new safe means of access for pedestrians and cyclists to the school.

Michael Martin Bridge

Named after a local bridge engineer who grew up in Carlisle and studied at the Carlisle Technical College. In the 2018 Queen's Birthday Honours he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in recognition of his role in the construction of the Queensferry Crossing the largest three-tower cable-stayed bridge in the world. Not bad for a local lad.

Hudson Scott Bridge

Named after Hudson Scott the Carlisle based printers (Metal Box). Their Carlisle works was the largest and best equipped of their kind in the country, and their decorated metal boxes made them pioneers of the metal printing industry in Great Britain and renowned the world over.