Cumberland Council is preparing to regenerate Market Square and Greenmarket, creating a welcoming and lively space for residents, businesses, and visitors.
The council is requesting the community to provide some input to a few questions regarding their preferences for the future events space.
The project involves the enhancement of a 6000-square-meter area, improving the area with a unique multifunctional events space set to host a diverse array of exciting activities and gatherings. This aims to make the area an attractive destination, nurturing community engagement and attracting visitors.
In collaboration with Natural Dimensions, the council is sharing some visual impressions of the proposed design, featuring innovative elements such as benches which look like they are twisting out of the ground, to create a natural performance setting. The walled seat elements, crafted with timber slats, will incorporate heritage-based lighting, casting a captivating glow on Carlisle's history. The consultant's integration of Carlisle's heritage includes proposed etchings of 'be just and fear not' on selected steps and the potential incorporation of the city's crest, decorated with roses and a central cross, replacing some of the drainage grating.
As the project progresses, the council clarifies that four trees have been removed from the designated area, two of these were unhealthy trees and two were in the construction zone for the events space. Additionally, the relocation of the war memorial is part of the plan, with an agreement reached with the British Legion to move it, along with its benches, to a more prominent space within the Market Square.
In commitment to environmental sustainability, Cumberland Council assures the community of new tree and shrub planting within the area, preserving the greenery at the heart of the city centre.
Residents and businesses can actively shape the project by contributing their thoughts by answering a brief two-minute questionnaire. The online survey will be open until Friday 8 March, midnight.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, emphasises the importance of community involvement, stating,
"The Market Square and Greenmarket project promises an energetic and inviting event space, in the heart of the city. It will combine the richness of Carlisle's history with contemporary design.
“We invite residents and businesses to share their thoughts, ensuring that this space becomes an area that we can all be proud of. Your invaluable input through this short questionnaire will benefit the project, and it will only take a couple of minutes to complete the brief survey.
“I want to thank everyone in advance, for taking the time to help us”.