Cumberland Council is excited to update residents on Start with The Park, a major regeneration project in Carlisle.
Backed by £2.6 million in government funding from the Carlisle Town Deal, this project marks the first phase of the Greenway—a visionary green travel route designed to connect key settlements of St Cuthbert's Garden Village (SCGV) with the city centre and surrounding countryside.
The Start with the Park project will bring a range of improvements to Hammond’s Pond, including upgraded play areas, a brand-new skate park, new tree planting, and enhanced footways. It will also address existing drainage issues within the park and improve connectivity to Eden Valley Hospice. Additionally, the project will collaborate with Active Cumbria to develop active travel walking routes and provide wayfinding information to support health and well-being.
To further enhance safety, six new crossing points will be introduced along a busy road, improving access and links between the park and SCGV. By incorporating active travel infrastructure into this growing residential area, the project aims to enhance accessibility and sustainability.
SCGV is a key part of Carlisle’s future growth, identified in the Carlisle District Local Plan 2015-2030 as a major mixed-use development providing up to 10,000 new homes. The project aims to promote green and healthy living, encourage sustainable travel, and support thriving communities.
Originally, a dedicated space was planned within the project to support green and sustainable travel routes. However, the initial location proved unfeasible. Instead, the focus has shifted to Hammond’s Pond, building on its success and further enhancing the area.
To ensure the best possible outcome, the council want to hear from you—the people who use Hammond’s Pond the most—about your ideas for a skate park.
A public consultation will be held until Monday 24 February, to gather the publics thoughts and suggestions. It is available here:
https://consult.cumberland.gov.uk/economic-regeneration-team/hammonds-pond-skatepark
Leader of Cumberland Council Councillor Mark Fryer, said:
“We are investing over £100 million into the Carlisle area, much of which has been funded by the Government. This demonstrates both our commitment to the region and the Government’s confidence in us as a council.
"Revitalising public spaces in Carlisle will create inviting environments where people want to spend time, raise their families, and move to helping to sustain a strong local economy and attract more people to the area.
“Hammond’s Pond is your park, and now is your chance to help shape the future of Carlisle’s green spaces. Please get involved and complete the survey so we can make sure we get it right!"