Market Square and The Greenmarket

Project overview

The Market Square and Greenmarket are central public spaces that serve as focal points for activities in the heart of Carlisle's pedestrianised city centre.

This regeneration project aims to transform these areas into vibrant, multifunctional spaces that support a broader range of events and activities, while enhancing the environment and attracting more residents and visitors to the city. The project will involve significant improvements to a 6,000-square-metre area, including:

a more attractive, accessible, and functional area for a variety of community events and gatherings
new amenities and facilities to boost public enjoyment, encouraging footfall, and improving the local economy

The inclusion of public toilets is not within the direct deliverables of this specific funding allocation. However, we recognise the importance of such amenities in making the city centre more accessible and visitor friendly. This feedback has been passed on to the relevant departments within the council for consideration in broader city planning efforts.

Project timeline

Technical Design: June 2024
Construction Start: summer 2024
Completion: spring 2025

Detailed timings

Week commencing 12 August 2024: Setup of site offices and final site checks.

Week commencing 19 August 2024: Construction begins, including the setup of a construction compound and the relocation of the war memorial with the support of the British Legion.

Who is carrying out the work

Eric Wright Civil Engineering Limited is the appointed contractor for this project.

The construction phase might offer temporary and permanent employment opportunities; please check local listings and the Eric Wright Civil Engineering website for job postings.

Funding for this project

The funding provided by the central government is specifically allocated for the regeneration and enhancement of city centres and high streets to drive growth, improve experiences, and ensure future sustainability. It is designated for projects that aim to transform public spaces and cannot be redirected to road maintenance or other services.

Impact on local business

There will be some changes to traffic and pedestrian flow, especially near Castle Street. Signage will be provided to assist navigation around the construction site.

Delivery routes will be adjusted and clearly marked to make sure businesses can have continued access during construction.

All businesses in the area will remain open as usual throughout the construction period. We encourage everyone to continue supporting local shops and services during this time.

Impact on residents

Construction methods to minimise dust and noise will be implemented, and work will adhere to city regulations regarding permissible noise levels.

If you have concerns, you can contact the Site Manager on site or visit the site office located on Castle Street. You can also email us.

Email: Carlisle.projects@cumberland.gov.uk

Accessibility during construction

Temporary changes will be made to pedestrian routes and traffic patterns, with full signage provided to help you navigate the area safely. A walkway for pedestrians will be maintained at all times, though its location may change periodically.

Pedestrian footways will be clearly marked and maintained throughout the construction period.

All temporary pathways and access routes will be designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities.

A clear access plan for emergency services has been developed and will be strictly followed during the construction period.

Access for coaches to the Crown and Mitre Hotel

We are closely collaborating with all affected businesses, including the Crown and Mitre Hotel, to ensure their specific operational needs are met both during and after the construction. Eric Wright Civil Engineering, appointed by us, is actively involved in addressing these logistics.

A robust traffic management plan has been developed to ensure that access for coaches and other vehicles is maintained throughout the construction phases. This includes implementing appropriate signage and temporary routes to support continuous access to the hotel and surrounding businesses.

Bikes and cycle access

We actively encourage the use of bikes and various modes of transportation as part of our commitment to a sustainable and accessible city centre. However, due to concerns about anti-social behaviour and to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors, including the elderly and those with disabilities, there are restrictions on using bicycles directly within the central pedestrian areas. We are exploring alternative solutions that balance accessibility with public safety and friendliness.

Historical integrity and environmental concerns

The project includes guidelines to respect and preserve the historical integrity of the Market Square and Greenmarket.

As part of our commitment to the environment, two trees affected by Ash Dieback will be removed, with four new trees planted to enhance the area’s greenery.

Community events

While construction is ongoing, we are working hard to minimise disruptions to the city’s events calendar.

We can confirm that major events will go ahead, including the:

Summer International Market - Thursday 22 August to Monday August 26 2024)
Remembrance Sunday commemorations - Sunday 10 November 2024

An artist impression of the proposed changes to the city centre

An artist impression of how Carlisle city centre will look after the works are complete. Looking at the Old Town Hall with the relocation of the war memorial with the support of the British Legion