The fate of Carlisle's former Tesco supermarket, situated in the Victoria Viaduct building, remains uncertain as the property continues to be available for let. 

Following its closure on October 14, which was said to be prematurely pushed through due to issues related to reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete, the establishment was described as a 'huge loss' for the inner-city retail scene.

The original decision to shut the supermarket dates back to June 2022.

The intention was to postpone its closure until an alternative retail spot in the region was located.

The rent, for the lease that will be negotiated, is pegged at around £175,000 per annum.

A potential freehold sale may also be considered for the building, which is being marketed by Carigiet Cowen. 

The large-scale interior makes up for a versatile business space, suitable for a variety of uses subject to planning, including another supermarket, retail warehouse, leisure centre, and possibly a hotel - developments that have the potential to go hand-in-hand with the University of Cumbria's upcoming  £78m Citadel project. 

It is believed the former Tesco first went on the market shortly after its initial closure. 

The property occupies a floor area of roughly 27,000 square feet, with an additional 2,869 square feet split over the first and second-floor office space.

It also comes with a car park under the building providing approximately 30 parking spots.

The potential change to the Victoria Viaduct building emulates a spirit of renewal that matches the rest of the street. 

Its adjacent Victory House, a six-storey 27,000 sq ft building, was sold at auction for £466,000 last September. 

In line with the regeneration of Victoria Viaduct, a 'preferred developer' was also selected on the site of a former hotel, next to the Tesco and Victory House last year. 

The 'Citadel View' site was previously home to the Grade II Central Plaza Hotel which was demolished and cleared during 2020 after falling into disrepair in 2011. 

The transfer of the site to the chosen developer was discussed at a meeting of the Cumberland Council's Executive on September 5.

The identities of both developers have yet to be revealed at this time. 

For viewings and more details on the former supermarket,  interested parties are advised to contact Ben Blain at bblain@carigietcowen.co.uk.