DURING a session in the House of Commons this week, Carlisle’s MP hailed the success of the Borderlands Growth Deal - and the opportunities it holds for the region.

The Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, formally signed this time last year, is bringing £425 million of investment into Carlisle.

Projects benefitting from the funding include the regeneration of Carlisle Railway Station and the redevelopment of the city’s Grade I Listed Citadel buildings.

£20 million has been earmarked for the railway station redevelopment under the Carlisle Station Gateway Project.

It is hoped that the project will make Carlisle a key player in the nation’s transport network, bringing economic benefits to the city, particularly from North of the border.

£50 million has been earmarked for the redevelopment of the Citadel buildings into a state of the art University of Cumbria campus.

Carlisle MP John Stevenson asked the Under Secretary of State for Scotland on Monday if the Borderlands region could benefit from a similar landmark economic investment in the future.

He said: “The Borderlands Growth Deal has been very well received on both sides of the border and demonstrates the benefits of a close working relationship between councils, MPs and Government.

“Given that success, would the minister envisage a further opportunity for a Borderlands Mark Two?”

Minister Iain Stewart MP said: “I strongly agree with my honourable friend that the Borderlands Growth Deal is a great demonstration of what can be achieved when we work together.

“I think what’s really important about these growth deals is that they do develop strong local partnerships and that can form the basis for longer term economic plans.

“I know my honourable friend was a fantastic champion of the Borderlands Growth Deal and I know he’ll be at the forefront of developing these future plans.”

The minister visited Carlisle in July 2021 to hear the benefits of the deal for Carlisle from council leaders.

Developments have been made on the projects in recent weeks.

Carlisle City Council, as planning authority, has received plans for the demolition of the empty Staples store on Station Business Park to facilitate the expansion of the railway station with a new car park.

The nearby Matalan building will be demolished after the lease expires in October 2025.

A contractor has now been appointed for the redevelopment of the citadel buildings.

Sir Robert McAlpine will deliver the work as sole contractor, securing the tender for £77.5million.