OPINIONS are split amongst News and Star readers following the news that plans for the expansion and redevelopment of Carlisle Railway Station will involve the demolition of two major city shops.

Carlisle’s railway station is set to undergo a major redevelopment thanks to £20 million from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.

And new details about the major Carlisle Station Gateway project have been released this week.

As planning authority, Carlisle City Council has been asked for planning permission to demolish the former Staples store on Station Business Park.

The demolition of the Staples store will facilitate the creation of a new car park for the station, paving the way for its expansion.

Cumbria County Council has requested permission for the works which will involve access to the other existing stores on James Street.

A report prepared for a meeting of the Borderland Growth Partnership this week reveals that the Matalan store will also be demolished to facilitate the expansion.

On the News and Star’s Facebook page, readers have shared their thoughts on the demolition plans.

Caroline Mulholland isn’t happy. She commented: “What a waste of money and resources. The city is on its knees and having a new station front isn’t going to get more business here.”

Heidi Hilland agrees that the details aren’t what’s best for the city. She shared: “More under thought out plans by the council.”

Dan Mason does, however, agree with the plans. He said: “I’m 100% behind this. Clear the front of the station of endless cars and traffic. Use the back end of the site to its greater advantage. People seeing only the negatives are short sighted.”

Like Dan, Dawn J Yarrow is positive about the move. She said: “I'd rather have empty shops filled in the city centre and cars kept to the outside of town, so I think this is a good idea. How many years now has JJB been stood empty among other shops, such a waste of a town centre and not everyone can drive or get multiple buses just to be able to go to a few shops that they keep putting in industrial estates. Bring back the high street.”

Read more: Staples AND Matalan will be demolished in Carlisle station plans