PLANS for the site of a former hotel in the city centre are currently being 'assessed' from a shortlist of potential developers. 

Cumberland Council, previously Carlisle City Council in partnership with property consultant CBRE, sought proposals to redevelop the ‘Citadel View’, at the Victoria Viaduct in March earlier this year. 

The 'Citadel View' site was previously home to the Grade II Central Plaza Hotel which was demolished and cleared during 2020. 

The hotel fell into disrepair in 2011, spending its last years behind scaffolding. 

The current land is 'effectively ownerless' and has been passed to The Crown Estate. 

Cumberland Council 'anticipate' that the potential investor would come from their recommendations following the expressions of interest previously received, a particular focus has been given to high-quality and sustainable development which is considered complementary to the surrounding area and regeneration efforts.

Approximately 3,000 students will be based at the University of Cumbria's new Citadels Campus, immediately opposite the site with completion expected in 2026. 

The adjacent six-storey building, Victory House, is also up for sale, accepting offers in the region of £675,000. 

A Cumberland Council spokesperson said: "We are working in partnership with property consultant CBRE to seek proposals to redevelop the former Central Plaza site.  

"UK Government Future High Street funding was secured to help facilitate the redevelopment of the site.

"The former Central Plaza site has been effectively ownerless for several years and is subject to escheat to be dealt with by The Crown Estate.

"Positive discussions have been held with the Crown’s advisors to ensure this important and prominent site is brought back into use. 

"It is anticipated that the appropriate investor would be the one recommended by the Council following our consideration of any proposals/expressions of interest received.

“Ambitious plans are also in place for other parts of Carlisle city centre with funding secured for Carlisle Railway Station and the Citadels," they said. 

£55.2m, of the total £78m cost of the campus project, has come from the Borderland Inclusive Growth Deal. 

In addition, Borderlands has provided £20m funding for the Citadel Railway Station transformation.