THE PEOPLE of Carlisle have been quick to share their thoughts on the proposed development plans for Devonshire Street and English Street.

The schemes, funded by the UK Government’s Future High Street Fund and Town Deal Fund, aim to improve the space for the local community and businesses  - creating a meaningful activity zone, with more spaces for people to walk and spend time sitting outdoors.

The proposed plans include more outdoor seating, street furniture, benches, cycle parking, trees, and plants.

Consultation gets underway next Tuesday and will run from June 6 to July 1. 

So far, the discussion has sparked a mixed reaction from News & Star readers - with many raising questions about the practicalities and whether or not the money could be better spent elsewhere. 

Some like, Lee Coan, have praised the forward-thinking nature of the proposals, stating that they will attract people to the city and encourage them to stay longer.

Meanwhile, others wondered what will happen to the traffic once the road is closed for work, as the location is already a busy thoroughfare. 

Critics also pointed out that the city centre has plenty of empty shops and run-down areas that could benefit from an investment before the construction of new developments.

Anne-Marie Lewis-Skipper suggested that the money could be better spent lowering rents for shops and subsidising new businesses to get off the ground.

Others questioned where the buses would now drop off passengers, with Dee Simpson and Alison McKee asking about the implications for public transport.

Tony Adam said, however: "Anything that promotes fewer cars and more green space gets my backing." 

One thing is clear, Carlisle’s residents and business owners are eager to see more investment in the city, whether that comes in the form of new developments or a revitalisation of the existing shopping district.

The project team has organised drop-in sessions which will be Tuesday, June 6 between 1 pm and 7 pm at Le Gall, Devonshire Street.

For residents and visitors of the area, there is the following event: Saturday, June 10, 10am to 3pm, Market Square (during the Hawker Festival).