Cumberland Council’s planning committee, which was held on Wednesday 19 February, approved plans for key public realm improvements and the creation of a pedestrianised square to the North of Carlisle station, at Court Square.
This development is a key part of the £27 million Carlisle Station Gateway project, which aims to enhance the station and create a more welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.
The project is backed by £20 million in funding from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, an initiative supporting regeneration across the Borderlands region, funded by the UK and Scottish Governments alongside funding from Network Rail and Cumberland Council.
Planning approval will enable the redevelopment of Court Square, including:
- Public realm enhancements
- Pedestrianisation of Court Square
- Relocation of Lawson's Monument
The Lawson’s drinking fountain, originally located in Court Square, moved in 1936 due to the construction of underground toilets, will be returned to the square restoring a piece of Carlisle’s history.
Works are due to commence autumn 2025 following the completion of highways and public realm improvement works to English Street and the Crescent/Botchergate junction.
Leader of Cumberland Council and Borderlands Partnership Board member, Cllr Mark Fryer, welcomed the approval, stating:
“This is excellent news for Carlisle. The project, as part of the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, will support regeneration in Carlisle and across the wider region. These improvements will make Carlisle Station more accessible, encourage more visitors to the city, and support local businesses. Additionally, moving Lawson’s Monument back to its original location will restore an important part of our local history.”
The Carlisle Station Gateway project aims to transform the area into a modern, accessible, and welcoming space for all station users and the surrounding community.
Plans for further works, developed in collaboration with Network Rail and Avanti West Coast for new station parking to the South of the Station (George Square) will be considered at a future planning meeting in the spring.
