Progress update on Carlisle's multi-million-pound projects

Over £80 million of public funding, from various sources, is anticipated to be invested in projects Carlisle city centre, with hopes of revitalising the city. 

Market Square and Greenmarket

The regeneration of Market Square, the pedestrianised area in front of the Old Town Hall, is progressing, with preparations this week including the excavation of tree pits for planting semi-mature trees.

These tree pits are made from 100 per cent recycled materials by GreenBlue Urban, ensuring sustainability.

These advanced systems are to ensure the trees thrive, creating healthier, greener urban spaces.

The redevelopment of Carlisle's high street (Image: Cumberland Council)

The repositioned war memorial, fully supported by the Royal British Legion, will ensure that Remembrance Sunday commemorations on November 10 will proceed as planned.

The Greenmarket area, part of the overall city centre redevelopment works are also underway. It is being carefully monitored by an Archaeological Watching Brief, ensuring any significant historical findings are recorded as work continues.

The project is expected to be completed by spring 2025. 

Eric Wright Civil Engineering, the contractor for this project, will be holding a drop-in session regarding the Greenmarket and Market Square projects on Tuesday, October 1, at The Crown and Mitre from 2pm to 5pm.

Attendees are welcome to ask questions, view project information, and see images of the development and timelines.

For further information about the drop-in session, contact Lesley Davison, public liaison officer, Eric Wright Civil Engineering, at ldavison@ericwright.co.uk

Carlisle Southern Gateway

Significant progress is also visible at Carlisle Southern Gateway on English Street, which will connect with the recently completed Devonshire Street.

The ongoing work includes wider pavements, new seating, trees, and planting designed to encourage pollinators, along with a bi-directional cycle lane, cycle racks, and new raised crossing points for pedestrians.

Recent progress includes more materials being laid, the Viaduct completion, and the reopening of bus stops, while tree pits and rain gardens are being dug, as the work continues along English Street.

Victoria Viaduct/ Central Plaza

The derelict Central Plaza prior to demolition in 2020. (Image: Stuart Walker)

Work on the Viaduct is moving forward, with Metcalfe Plant Hire Ltd from Penrith now on-site at the location of the former Central Plaza.

Scaffolding is up to facilitate the safe removal of the party wall, ensuring the area remains tidy and secure for future use.

This time last year, a 'preferred developer' was chosen to progress negotiations for the redevelopment of the former Central Plaza site. 

Station Gateway 

Progress also continues with the Station Gateway project, set to create a dynamic new entrance to the city with business, education, and public spaces connected to the station.

The £28 million Carlisle Station Gateway Project aims to support the growth of passenger traffic, making the station more user-friendly and accessible, as well as prioritising green transport options.  

The old 1970s pool building on James Street and the empty Staples building have been demolished as part of the project. 

Court Square public realm work is expected to take place in 2025.