HISTORIC cast iron railings have been removed from the perimeter of the Sands Centre car park in Carlisle after a council appraisal found them to be in 'poor condition'.

Concerns have been raised over the future of the railings, which face the DFS site, with one resident saying it was a ‘shame to see our heritage gone’.

But Cumberland Council has confirmed the railings are ‘safely stored’ and that a 'temporary' rail fence will be installed in the meantime.

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A spokesman for Cumberland Council said: “An appraisal carried out by conservation engineers highlighted the railings are in poor condition and at risk of partial collapse.

“The railings have an outward lean and this is likely caused by inadequate foundations, tree roots destabilising the ground, and vehicle impact.

“To deal with the safety concern the railings have been temporarily removed and safely stored.

“To maintain the boundary between the car park and the footpath on Newmarket Road, a temporary timber post and rail fence will be installed.”