Cumberland Council is updating the community on the dynamic plans, projects, and enhancements set to support the growth of Carlisle.
These transformative initiatives, fuelled by substantial capital investments, primarily from Central Government, will be realised through various funding channels, including the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, Future High Street Fund, and Town Deals.
Kicking off the rejuvenation schemes in 2024 are the Devonshire Street, English Street, Market Square, and Green Market projects, alongside the ongoing progress of the Carlisle Station Gateway Project.
Devonshire Street project – contracted to Eric Wright Civil Engineering Limited, and backed by Carlisle Future High Streets Fund, this project will witness a vibrant overhaul. Having additional outdoor seating, street furniture, benches, cycle parking, trees, and plants, this project aims to create a meaningful activity zone, providing ample spaces for residents and visitors to stroll and spend time sitting outdoors.
The work will start from week commencing Monday 5 February. To ensure the safety of the public and contractors, a full road closure is necessary and will be in place for approximately 20 weeks, weather permitting, with a diversion route in place. While safety measures such as fencing will be implemented, the council reassures that local businesses along Devonshire Street will remain open with accessible footway access. For full details, please go to the One Network website.
For the duration of the road closure Stagecoach services 61, 63 and 67 will be unable to serve the bus stops on English Street. Temporary bus stops will be located on Lowther Street outside Club Britannia (the social club). Services 62 and 69 will continue to stop on English Street.
English Street Project – contracted to Story Contracting Limited, this project aims to improve the area for all users, promoting active travel, and establishing pedestrian connections that align with these developments. The public spaces in the city centre will be improved, providing an area where people want to spend time, providing an improved gateway to the city.
Carlisle Station Gateway – working with Network Rail, Cumberland Council are delivering improvements to the station building and areas surrounding the station itself. The project includes partial pedestrianisation of Court Square and an upgraded and welcoming entrance from George Square; public car parking being relocated to George Square to reduce the vehicular traffic at Court Square and a focus on improving access at Water Street and Court Square Brow to improve access to the station, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.
The work for this project started in 2023, and will continue until 2027, with The Pools being demolished and road traffic improvements to be made. The council is reminding the community that businesses within the James Street and Water Street area remain open and fully operational.
This project has been contracted to Eric Wright Civil Engineering Limited to work on George Square and Story Contracting Limited to work on Court Square.
Market Square and Greenmarket projects – contracted to Eric Wright Civil Engineering Limited and supported by the Carlisle Future High Streets Fund, this project is dedicated to improving the 6000-square-metre area, by optimising the space, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors alike. This transformation will pave the way for a unique multifunctional events space, set to host various exciting activities and gatherings.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
“We are thrilled with the significant investment from central Government to enhance Carlisle. As visitors step out from the train station into the city centre, they will encounter a vastly improved area, reflecting the pride we all have in our city.
“Enhanced business areas are poised to positively impact dwelling and visitor numbers, and we hope the community shares our anticipation for brightening up the area.”
“I am looking forward to seeing the transformation take place and would like to extend my thanks to everyone for their incredible patience and support during these developments.”
Rory Kingdon, Senior Sponsor at Network Rail, added:
“We are delighted to be working collaboratively with Cumberland Council to enhance Carlisle station and the surrounding area. The scheme will not only transform this key Anglo-Scottish transport hub on the West Coast main line, but also create a magnificent public square at the front of the historic Grade 2 listed station.
“We look forward to continuing to deliver the scheme in partnership and to realise the ambition of the council.”
For more information about all the projects please go to Cumberland Council’s website.