A new SPAR store is set to open on Carlisle's English Street by summer, assuming all goes to plan.

Previously, the site at 81 – 85 English Street was the location of the 'Edinburgh Woollen Mill' store until 2020.

There had been rumours that Tesco might move into the vacated premises following the closure of their Victoria Viaduct outlet, but the supermarket giant has confirmed this will not be the case.

The renovation of the premises is being conducted by building firm, McKnight, who anticipate having the shop completed by July.

It was M & L Richardson who initially proposed the development project to Cumberland Council.

If the original plans hold, the Spar outlet will employ six full-time and eight part-time staff.

The proposed opening hours will be from 7am to 11pm, seven days a week.

Upon approval of the planning proposal, a recommendation report published by the council stated: "The proposal would bring back into active use a large currently vacant retail unit located directly opposite the University of Cumbria redevelopment."

The SPAR store will sit at the heart of the broader English Street development project.

Its proposals include the widening of pavements, the introduction of new seating, trees and planting, and the implementation of cycle lanes.

Further amenities include cycle racks, new pedestrian crossings, a single-lane carriageway for vehicles with its own lane leading to Devonshire Street.

Some modifications will be required to facilitate these changes, such as the removal of two of the current bus stops, relocating a bus stop to Victoria Viaduct, and the reduction of existing loading and taxi ranks.

According to the Cumberland Council website, construction is set to be complete by Winter 2025. 

The adjacent Devonshire Street began its 20-week closure on February 5 as part of the city centre's regeneration plans.

Spar was approached for comment.